How do I file a complaint against my real estate agent in Ontario?

To file a complaint about a registered real estate agent or brokerage in Ontario, you submit it to RECO — the Real Estate Council of Ontario. RECO's online complaint process asks you to describe the alleged conduct, identify the registrant involved, and provide supporting documentation.

Before submitting, try to resolve the issue directly with the brokerage's management (the broker of record). Many concerns can be addressed more quickly at the brokerage level without going through a formal regulatory process. If that fails, RECO is the appropriate next step.

RECO investigates complaints and decides whether the conduct violated REBBA or the Code of Ethics. If it did, RECO can impose discipline ranging from mandatory education to fines, suspension, or revocation of registration. However, RECO cannot order the agent to pay you money or provide other civil remedies. If your loss is financial — for example, a commission dispute, damages from a misrepresentation that affected your sale price, or a breach of the listing agreement — you may need to pursue a civil claim through Ontario's courts or small claims process. A real estate lawyer can help you assess whether a RECO complaint, civil action, or both make sense in your situation.