OHIO, USA — The Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing (REPL) announced Tuesday a new guide that has been developed to help Ohioans file real estate complaints.
The division said the guide, available HERE, offers step-by-step instructions to ensure Ohioans can submit complaints efficiently so they can be promptly addressed.
The guide is said to focus on several key points.
The Division of Real Estate said the enforcement section of the division "thoroughly investigates complaints submitted by the public." Potential violations of real estate license law by individuals or companies under the division's jurisdiction are subject to investigation.
The division said consumers can check and verify the status of real estate licensees through the department's website or direct communication with the division.
If you do submit a complaint, consumers are encouraged to complete a form and provide relevant transaction documents. The division said consumers should also be prepared to testify if necessary and have the option to engage in mediation.
Complaints should be submitted to the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing for review and possible action. The division said that disciplinary measures such as license suspension, fines, public reprimands or further education requirements may be imposed if violations are found.
According to the Division of Real Estate, the complaint process "primarily focuses on identifying breaches of license law and does not involve financial compensation or contract interpretation."
The division said REPL received 480 real estate complaints, which included allegations of violations related to advertising, unauthorized access and property management.
“Transparency and accountability within the real estate industry is paramount to ensuring consumer protection, especially given the fact these are among the largest purchases someone will ever make,” REPL Superintendent Daphne Hawk said. “This new guide is designed to connect Ohioans with the necessary resources they need to more easily and effectively share real estate-related concerns with us, which is key to ensuring we uphold the integrity of our licensing standards. While the vast majority of Ohio’s real estate agents adhere to license law and do their best to serve Ohioans’ best interests, our Division is here to protect consumers against any individuals who might not meet those high standards.”
