Three months ago, important updates were made to the Code of Ethics, including 11 amendments to its Standards of Practice. One key change is to Standard of Practice 10-5, which now includes a clearer definition of “harassment” and emphasizes that REALTORS® are accountable for their words and actions—including what they say, write, or post—when acting in a professional capacity.

Why These Changes Matter

These updates are designed to:

• Clarify your responsibilities under Article 10.
• Protect local and state associations and their volunteer leaders.
• Help REALTORS® comply more easily with the Code of Ethics.

Article 10 – A Quick Refresher (amended 1/23)

REALTORS® shall not:

• Deny equal professional services to anyone based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
• Be involved in any agreement or plan that discriminates against people based on these same characteristics.
• Discriminate in their real estate employment practices for these reasons.

What’s New in Standard of Practice 10-5 (Effective June 5, 2025)

Updated Language:

REALTORS®, in their capacity as real estate professionals, in association with their real estate businesses, or in their real estate-related activities shall not harass any person or persons based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Harassment is:

“Unwelcome behavior directed at an individual or group based on one or more of the above protected characteristics where the purpose or effect of the behavior is to create a hostile, abusive, or intimidating environment which adversely affects their ability to access equal professional services or employment opportunity.” (Adopted and effective 11/13/20, Amended 1/23 and 6/5/25).

Changes to Policy Statement 29:

While REALTORS® are encouraged to live by the Code of Ethics in all areas of life, a REALTOR® shall be subject to disciplinary action under the COE only with respect to all of their capacity as real estate professionals, in association with their real estate businesses, or in their real estate-related activities.

Bottom Line: Be Thoughtful in All Communications

There’s no “real estate agent-client privilege” that protects your messages in a legal dispute. Anything you say—online, in writing, or in person—can be used against you.

Here are some tips:

• Always act like a professional, even during tough conversations.
• Never use insults, slurs, or profanity.
• If you’re upset, pause before responding. Talk to your broker or manager first.
• Your words could be misinterpreted and used as evidence of discrimination or a violation of Article 10.

Remember: The Code of Ethics is not just a guideline—it’s a protection for you, your clients, and the reputation of the profession.