All REALTORS® voluntarily subscribe to the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics. In addition, REALTORS® agree as a condition of membership to arbitrate contractual disputes and specific non-contractual disputes as provided for in Article 17 of the Code of Ethics.
REALTOR® Code of Ethics
Filing a Complaint
If you believe a REALTOR®, who is a SAAR member (you can search our member database here), has violated an Article of the Code of Ethics, you may file a complaint through the Arizona Association of REALTORS® (AAR). AAR handles enforcement of the Code of Ethics, as well as arbitration of business disputes, for SAAR and its members. You may view complete information on filing an Ethics Complaint on the Arizona REALTORS® website.
Mediation
SAAR members can resolve complaints through the Arizona Association of REALTORS® (AAR) Mediation Program. AAR’s Mediation program offers an opportunity for parties involved in an ethics complaint or arbitration dispute to settle the matter with the aid of a neutral third-party REALTOR® mediator. Resolving ethics complaints or arbitration disputes through mediation is more expedient, less costly and more amicable then a hearing. Both parties have an opportunity to be heard, discuss the issues and mutually agree on a settlement. AAR’s success rate, in 2012, was 100 percent resolution for all mediations held. For more information, visit Mediation Programs.
Arbitration
When mediation efforts are not successful, REALTORS® may be obligated to file a formal request for arbitration. For more information, visit Arbitration Programs.
For more information, contact Sam Clah, AAR’s Professional Standards Coordinator, at samclah@aaronline.com or 602-248-7787.