What is RECO and how does it protect me when selling my home in Ontario?

RECO stands for the Real Estate Council of Ontario. It is the regulatory body established under Ontario's real estate legislation to license and oversee real estate brokerages, brokers, and salespersons in the province. RECO sets and enforces the Code of Ethics that all registered agents must follow.

As a seller, RECO's main relevance is that it gives you a formal avenue to file a complaint if your agent or brokerage has acted improperly — for example, by failing to disclose a conflict of interest, misrepresenting the property, breaching confidentiality, or not providing agreed services. RECO investigates complaints and can impose discipline, including fines or the suspension or revocation of registration.

RECO also administers a consumer deposit protection program (RECOPA) for deposits held in real estate trust accounts. However, RECO does not resolve civil disputes or order agents to pay damages — for financial recovery you would need to pursue a civil claim. Before filing a complaint, document the issue thoroughly and consider whether the matter is best addressed through RECO, civil litigation, or direct negotiation with the brokerage. A lawyer can help you assess which path makes sense.