I’m sure many of you seasoned realtors have seen just about everything. Here’s my question! I have a client who’s listed their home with me, and I got a call from police asking for access to the home because they have a search warrant. I haven’t seen the warrant and have no clue if it’s valid. I’m not an attorney, so I’m unsure how to handle this. I feel like I’m not obligated to assist, since it’s not my house, but if I help, could it violate my contract with my client? I didn’t promise LEO anything. What would you do?
Honestly, I’d ask your broker how to proceed. The listing belongs to them, not you. And definitely look up your client on Forewarn lol.
I hope you called your broker before posting here. As a broker, I’d immediately contact our VP of sales, who would call our attorney. No way I’d decide about police access without guidance from my brokerage.
What did you guys do? I did notify my broker, but haven’t heard back yet.
I’d ignore a subpoena or warrant not directed at you. If the cops wanted you to open the door, they’d have asked for it in their request. This isn’t your problem.
Sky said:
I’d ignore a subpoena or warrant not directed at you. If the cops wanted you to open the door, they’d have asked for it in their request. This isn’t your problem.
Cooperating might not violate your contract, but could be seen as an ethics violation. You have a key for showings, not for police access. I’d call your client and let them know.
I did tell the client, and they weren’t aware of any search warrant. It’s weird since there’s nothing in the house. If they wanted to see inside, they could just look at the listing photos.
Zander said:
I did tell the client, and they weren’t aware of any search warrant. It’s weird since there’s nothing in the house. If they wanted to see inside, they could just look at the listing photos.
Yeah, it is strange. Maybe they’re searching for something that left residue behind, like a meth lab or something? Or they think there’s a hidden gun?