How To File a Complaint Online Filing a complaint with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) is easier than ever through the Real Estate and Appraiser License Management (REALM) Portal. Whether you're reporting a potential violation or responding to an enforcement request, the online process allows you to submit information, upload documents, and track your case from one convenient location. Follow the steps below to file a complaint online.

Before You Begin

Before starting your complaint, gather as much information as possible, including:

• The name or license number of the individual or business involved (if known).
• Relevant dates and details about the incident.
• Copies of contracts, emails, photographs, or other supporting documentation.
• Contact information for any witnesses, if applicable.

You'll also need a REALM Portal account to submit a complaint.

Step 1: Sign in to the REALM Portal

Sign in to your REALM Portal account. If you don't already have an account, create one before beginning the complaint process.

From your account dashboard, select Complaints, then choose Enter a Complaint.

Step 2: Start a New Complaint Application

After accepting the terms:

• Select Continue Application.
• Choose TREC – Complaints.
• Select TREC Complaint.
• Click Continue to begin the complaint application.

Step 3: Enter Your Contact Information

Provide your name, phone number, email address, and mailing address so TREC can contact you regarding your complaint.

Step 4: Identify the Respondent

Search for the individual or business you're filing a complaint against using:

• License number
• Name
• License type

If you can't locate the respondent in the search results, you can manually enter their information using the Other Respondents option.

If your complaint involves multiple individuals or businesses, you can add each respondent during this step.

Step 5: Add Witnesses (If Applicable)

If there are witnesses who can provide information about the complaint, add their contact information. You may include as many witnesses as necessary.

Step 6: Provide Complaint Details

Answer all required questions about your complaint. Be as specific and accurate as possible to help enforcement staff understand the situation.

Step 7: Upload Supporting Documents

Attach any documents or evidence that support your complaint, such as:

• Contracts
• Emails or text messages
• Photos
• Receipts
• Other relevant records

When uploading documents, select the appropriate document type and provide a brief description for each attachment.

Step 8: Review and Submit

Carefully review all information you've entered before submitting your complaint.

Once submitted, you'll receive a complaint number and an email confirmation acknowledging receipt. Save your complaint number for future reference.

Track Your Complaint

After submitting your complaint, you can return to the REALM Portal at any time to:

• View your complaint record.
• Check the processing status.
• Upload additional documents if requested by TREC enforcement staff.

If additional information is needed during the investigation, you'll receive instructions by email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can file a complaint with TREC?

Anyone who believes a TREC license holder or another person subject to TREC's jurisdiction may have violated the Texas Real Estate License Act, the Inspector Act, or TREC rules may file a complaint.

You do not need to be represented by an attorney to submit a complaint.

Can I file a complaint anonymously?

No. TREC cannot accept anonymous complaints. When filing a complaint, you must provide your name and contact information.

Your identity is initially protected during the complaint process; however, TREC cannot guarantee it will remain confidential throughout the investigation. A copy of your complaint may be provided to the person or business named in the complaint, and you may be required to testify if the matter proceeds to a hearing.

Do I need a REALM Portal account to file a complaint?

Yes. You must create a REALM Portal account and sign in before you can submit a complaint online.

What information should I have before I begin?

To help TREC review your complaint, gather as much relevant information as possible, including:

• The name, license number, or business name of the individual or company involved (if known).
• Dates and details of the events. 
• Contracts, emails, text messages, photographs, receipts, or other supporting docouments.
• Contact information for any witnesses, if applicable.

Can I file a complaint if I don't know the person's license number?

Yes. You can search using the individual's name or license type. If you are unable to locate the individual or business in the search results, you can manually add them using the Other Respondents section.

Can I file a complaint against more than one person or business?

Yes. You can add multiple respondents to a single complaint if they are related to the same matter.

Can I add witnesses?

Yes. If there are witnesses with information relevant to your complaint, you can add their contact information during the application.

What types of documents can I upload?

You may upload documents that support your complaint, such as contracts, correspondence, photographs, receipts, or other relevant records. When uploading files, select the appropriate document type and provide a brief description for each attachment.

Can I upload multiple documents?

Yes. You may upload multiple supporting documents during the application process.

What happens after I submit my complaint?

After your complaint is submitted, you will receive a complaint number for your records and a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your complaint. TREC enforcement staff will review the information provided and determine the appropriate next steps.

How can I check the status of my complaint?

Sign in to your REALM Portal account and navigate to Complaints. From your complaint record, you can view the processing status and any updates available.

Will TREC contact me if additional information is needed?

Yes. If enforcement staff need additional documentation or information, they will contact you using the email address associated with your complaint. You may also be asked to upload additional documents through the REALM Portal.

Can I submit additional documents after filing my complaint?

Yes. If additional documentation is requested, you can upload it through your complaint record in the REALM Portal.