A: REALTORS® and REALTOR-Associates® agree to abide by the REALTOR® Code of Ethics and Professional Standards. The NAR Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual proscribes different approaches for contractual or similar type disputes versus unethical behavior. In both situations, it is recommended that you reach out to the other REALTOR® or the REALTOR®’s broker and try to resolve the issue(s) between the parties. If the dispute involves a contractual or similar type issue and you are unable to resolve the dispute by speaking with the other party, you can then pursue arbitration or mediation through your local association. If the dispute involves a Code of Ethics’ violation or violations, and you are unable to resolve the dispute by speaking with the other party, you can file a formal ethics complaint with your local association. If your local association does not accept ethics complaints, the Alabama Association of REALTORS® stands ready to assist you and the local association. Source: Alabama REALTORS® Bylaws Date: August 2017

A: Yes. AREC accepts anonymous complaints. However, AREC cannot notify you of the outcome of the case or even whether an investigation occurred. Source: Alabama Real Estate Commission Date: August 2017

A: Yes. AREC accepts written complaints. You can mail, email or fax the complaint to: 1201 Carmichael Way, Montgomery AL 36101 (mail); 334-270-9118 (fax); or arec@arec.alabama.gov (email). Source: Ala. Code § 34-27-36(a) Date: August 2017

A: Yes. When a complaint is filed, AREC will notify the licensee and qualifying broker in writing. Law: Ala. Code § 34-27-36(d) Date: August 2017