Question 1

Do real estate agents in Ontario need a background check?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) requires all applicants for registration as a salesperson or broker to undergo a criminal background check as part of the registration process under the Trust in Real Estate Services Act, 2002 (TRESA).

Question 2

What type of background check does RECO require?

Accepted Answer

RECO requires a CPIC Level II (CRMJC) criminal background check. This enhanced check covers criminal convictions, pending charges, probation orders, and judicial court actions. A basic Level I check is not sufficient.

Question 3

Do mortgage brokers also need a background check?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) requires background checks for mortgage broker and mortgage agent registration. A CPIC Level II (CRMJC) check is the required standard.

Question 4

How long does the background check take?

Accepted Answer

Results are typically delivered within 30 minutes to 72 hours. Your official PDF report is sent directly to your inbox.

Question 5

Do I need to visit a police station?

Accepted Answer

No. The entire LawCheck process is done online. You complete the application and identity verification digitally — no police station visit or paper forms required.

Question 6

How long is the background check valid for RECO registration?

Accepted Answer

RECO requires the background check to be recent at the time of application submission. LawCheck's reports are date-stamped at the time of completion. Check RECO's current guidelines for the exact required timeframe.