FAQs about Arbitration

Is there a statute of limitations for filing arbitration requests?  Yes. The timed period is 180 days from the time that you could have known, in the exercise of reasonable diligence, the facts giving rise to the dispute.

I?d like to file a complaint, but what about confidentiality?  All arbitrations are kept strictly confidential. Only staff involved in the administration of cases, members of the Grievance Committee, and those members of the Professional Standards Committees assigned to the hearing panel have access to arbitration cases.

Is there a special form I should use when filing a request for arbitration? File an arbitration request using Request and Agreement to Arbitration Form A-1, available from CBR. This form should be accompanied by a supporting typewritten narrative or chronological summary of the events that occurred.

Where do I submit the arbitration request?  Submit the request in care of:  Professional Standards Administrator, Columbus Board of REALTORS®, 2700 Airport Drive, Columbus OH 43219.

How do I know whether to file an ethics complaint or request arbitration? Generally, ethics complaints are filed about behavior; arbitration is requested when there is a dispute over a real estate commission.

Can I file an arbitration request and an ethics complaint at the same time? Yes. Both case types can be filed at the same time. If both cases are determined by the Grievance Committee to warrant hearings, the arbitration is held first.

Will the person who I?m filing against be notified of my complaint?  Yes. Once your request has been submitted to CBR, a complete copy is sent to the respondent for a reply.

Who establishes the rules that CBR follows in handling arbitrations?  CBR is required to follow the guidelines and procedures outlined in the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual of the National Association of REALTORS®.

How long does the process take?  If arbitrations go to hearing, the process may take 2-3 months, allowing for the time for receiving responses, proper notification, review by the Grievance Committee and scheduling of a hearing.

Is arbitration binding?  Yes. Members agree to abide by the Code of Ethics, which includes the duty to arbitrate.  And, CBR?s membership application includes an affirmation by the member to submit business disputes to the board?s professional standards procedures.  Such arbitrations are binding under Ohio law.

Do I have to use CBR?s arbitration if I have a commission dispute?  Yes. Article 17 of the Code of Ethics requires members to first submit disputes to arbitration rather than litigation, unless both parties advise CBR in writing that they choose not to arbitrate before the board.