WRA Board Approves Updates to Ethics Citation Policy and Schedule of Fines

The WRA board of directors recently approved revisions to the WRA’s Statewide Professional Standards Enforcement Program Ethics Citation Policy and Schedule of Fines, which originally went into effect on January 1, 2024.

As a result of the 2025 changes to the REALTOR^® Code of Ethics, the National Association of REALTORS^® (NAR) updated its Model Citation Policy and Schedule of Fines. The WRA followed suit by approving updates to clarify references to NAR’s Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual as well as policies and procedures, remove references to outdated and modified Articles and Standards of Practice and remove the requirement to provide violators with a second administrative notice.

The updates also increase citation amounts for all violations, but most significantly for violations involving unauthorized access to listed properties. Access to property through lockbox systems and other authorized means is a privilege that carries significant responsibility. Property owners place their trust in REALTORS^® to safeguard their homes and ensure that access is provided only for legitimate and authorized purposes. Violations involving unauthorized entry or access undermine that trust and can negatively impact the reputation of the entire profession. Accordingly, fines for unauthorized access to property were increased to $5,000 for a first violation, $10,000 for a second violation and $15,000 for a third violation of Article 1 (Standard of Practice 1-16) or Article 3 (Standard of Practice 3-9).

Fines for all other Articles and Standards of Practice subject to the Ethics Citation Policy were increased to $500 for a first violation, $1,000 for a second violation and $3,500 for a third violation. The changes reflect the association's ongoing commitment to promoting professionalism, protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of the real estate profession. All changes are effective immediately.

In approving these revisions, the board of directors recognized the importance of ensuring the association's enforcement tools appropriately reflect the seriousness of violations of the Code of Ethics. The increased citation amounts are intended to reinforce members' professional obligations and serve as a meaningful deterrent to behavior that compromises consumer confidence and property security.

Finally, the board approved the same education options for all second and third offenses to ensure consistency in enforcement procedures. Completion of NAR’s Code of Ethics course, or other course as determined by the citation panel, within 30 days will be required. Proof of completion must be provided to the WRA, and the course cannot be counted toward continuing education.

As a reminder, ethics complaints received by the WRA are forwarded to a grievance panel for review. If it is determined the alleged violations in the complaint are citable offenses, the panel may issue a citation based on the schedule of fines. Respondents can choose to either comply with the citation or request an ethics hearing. The identity of the complainant will be kept confidential unless the respondent requests a hearing.

The WRA encourages all members to review the updated Citation Policy and Schedule of Fines to remain familiar with their responsibilities and adherence to the REALTOR^® Code of Ethics. This information, as well as additional information regarding Professional Standards and how to file a complaint, is available on the WRA professional standards webpage.