RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario): Your Rights

Matters Lawyers Handle in This Sector

• Failure to disclose material facts about a property
• Misrepresentation in listings or advertising
• Multiple representation and conflict-of-interest issues
• Deposit handling and trust account concerns
• Pressure tactics or breach of client obligations

Your Rights

• To disclosure of material facts and of any multiple representation
• To the representation agreement and documentation of your instructions
• To complain to the regulator at no cost
• To pursue a civil claim for loss, and to claim on any applicable insurance

How to Escalate a Matter

1. 1Raise it with the brokerage in writing

   Brokerages have obligations to respond; request the file and your agreements.

2. 2RECO complaints process

   Conduct complaints under the governing legislation; can result in penalties or discipline.

3. 3Civil claim / deposit insurance

   For financial loss, including claims relating to deposits held in trust.

Escalation routes and their requirements change. Confirm the current process before relying on it.

Frequently Asked Questions

The agent didn't disclose something material — is that a breach?

Disclosure of material facts is a core obligation. Document what was known, when, and by whom, and pursue both the regulatory complaint and, for financial loss, a civil claim.

What happens to my deposit if the brokerage fails?

Deposits are required to be held in trust, and insurance protections exist for certain deposit losses. Raise it urgently with the regulator.

This page is educational information about the regulatory framework and your options in this sector. It is not legal advice, contains no complaints, ratings, reviews or rankings, and makes no statement about the conduct of any organization. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario).