Feeling overwhelmed by real estate paperwork? You’re not alone.
Whether you're buying or selling in BC, working with a REALTOR® comes with a stack of documents—some mandatory, others helpful, all important. But don’t worry—this isn’t legalese overload. This guide breaks down the most common forms you’ll encounter, what they mean, and why they matter, so you can feel confident at every step of the process.
Let’s take the mystery out of the fine print.
1. Disclosure of Representation in Trading Services (DORTS)
Before a REALTOR® can give you advice or talk specifics about your finances or real estate goals, they’re required to present you with this form.
The DORTS is a mandatory disclosure document, required under Section 54 of the Real Estate Services Rules, regulated by the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA).
It explains:
Whether the agent is working for you, the seller, or neither
What duties the agent owes you (e.g., loyalty, confidentiality)
That you’re not obligated to work with them just by signing it
This form became especially important after BC banned dual agency in most residential transactions in 2018, to prevent conflicts of interest [2].
Signing the DORTS does not commit you to the agent—it simply confirms they’ve explained your rights.
2. Privacy Notice and Consent (PNC)
This form tells you how your personal information—like your name, contact info, or government-issued ID—will be collected, used, and protected during the transaction.
Under Canadian privacy laws, REALTORS® are required to explain how your data will be:
Shared with other parties (like lawyers or mortgage brokers)
Stored (by the agent or brokerage)
Used for legal and regulatory requirements (e.g., FINTRAC verification)
By signing the PNC, you’re giving permission for this use—and protecting yourself by ensuring your information is handled properly and ethically.
3. Property Disclosure Statement (PDS) – Seller Form
If you're buying a home, your agent may provide you with a Property Disclosure Statement, which is voluntarily completed by the seller.
It asks the seller to answer yes/no questions about:
Past water damage or flooding
Renovations and permits
Structural or pest issues
Known disputes or legal claims
The PDS isn’t legally required, but it's a helpful tool that gives buyers insight into the home’s condition—and can signal red flags worth investigating further.
Always pair a PDS with a professional home inspection.
4. Listing Contract – For Sellers
If you’re listing your home, you’ll sign a Listing Contract with your REALTOR®. This is a legal agreement that gives your agent the right to market and sell your home.
It outlines:
Your listing price and property details
The agent’s commission and how it’s shared
How long they’ll represent you
Your responsibilities as a seller (access for showings, accurate info, etc.)
Your agent’s duties (marketing, negotiation, legal guidance)
Whether your home will be listed on the MLS®
This contract is essential for formalizing the relationship and ensuring both sides know what to expect.
5. Material Latent Defect (MLD) Disclosure
Unlike the PDS, disclosing material latent defects is legally required.
A material latent defect is a hidden issue that:
Can’t be discovered by a reasonable inspection, and
Makes the property dangerous or unfit for use, or
Significantly affects the home’s value or function
Examples include:
Foundation damage behind finished walls
Mould inside insulation or ventilation
A history of basement flooding
Structural issues hidden by staging
If the seller knows about such an issue and fails to disclose it, they can face:
Cancellation of the sale
Legal action for damages
Professional consequences for their agent
Buyers should always ask questions, review available documents, and rely on inspections to complement any disclosures.
**The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content at the time of writing, laws, regulations, and real estate practices in British Columbia may change over time. Readers are encouraged to consult with a licensed real estate professional, lawyer, or the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) for specific guidance relevant to their individual situation. The author and affiliated REALTOR® or brokerage assume no liability for any loss or damages arising from reliance on this information.
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