REINZ faces changes to complaints and discipline process

“We want to be able to provide those who have suffered an actual loss with redress, so they are properly compensated.”

“There are over 200,000 property sales every year handled by our members and in the current year there have been 197 complaints, of which 94 didn’t require any further action beyond the initial investigation. The remainder proceeded through the disciplinary process, some ending up at the ultimate disciplinary body, the Real Estate Agents Licensing Board, which is a body independent of the Institute.”

“Granted some cases haven’t received the penalties justified but that relates to the current fines legislation which is what we are seeking to change.”

Cleland said the Institute has suggested an independent review committee which would contain representatives of the Crown solicitors office “but the minister obviously that the transparency of the process needs to be greater”.

“We look forward to progressing this to come up with an improved disciplinary structure including broadening the powers of the Licensing Board to deregister errant practitioners, and a stronger fines regime, measures which will satisfy everyone.”

“I am sure we can achieve this by the February timeframe set by the minister,” Cleland said.