If a fair housing complaint is filed against a real estate licensee in Virginia, which group is responsible for addressing it?

In Virginia, when a fair housing complaint is filed against a real estate licensee, it is the Virginia Real Estate Board that is responsible for addressing the issue. This board oversees real estate practices in the state and ensures that licensees adhere to both state laws and federal regulations governing fair housing.

The board has the authority to investigate complaints and take appropriate action if violations are found. This may include disciplinary measures against the licensee, ensuring compliance with fair housing laws, and protecting the rights of the individuals who file complaints.

The other entities mentioned, while related to housing and legal matters, do not specifically handle fair housing complaints against real estate professionals in Virginia. For instance, the Virginia Housing Commission is involved in broader housing policies, while the Virginia Fair Housing Office focuses on fair housing issues but typically does not have the authority to take disciplinary action against licensees. The Department of Justice, although it deals with federal fair housing laws, would generally step in for significant violations or systemic issues rather than manage individual complaints against real estate professionals.