A Georgia licensee is working with a buyer interested in a duplex. During the showing, the seller mentions that a known drainage issue on the property is 'no big deal' and suggests the licensee pass that along to the buyer. The property is located near a flood zone, and the buyer asks the licensee whether the drainage could affect flood risk. How should the licensee handle this situation?

Correct Answer

B) Advise the buyer that the drainage and flood-risk questions require technical expertise and recommend the buyer consult qualified inspectors, engineers, or the appropriate public agencies for accurate information.

Under Georgia law, licensees have a duty to act within the bounds of their competence. When a condition involves technical matters such as flood-zone determinations, drainage engineering, or environmental assessments, the licensee should direct consumers to qualified professionals—inspectors, surveyors, engineers, insurers, or public agencies—rather than offer opinions beyond their expertise. This principle is supported by BRRETA (O.C.G.A. Title 10, Chapter 6A) and Georgia's disclosure requirements under O.C.G.A. § 44-1-16, which expect licensees to facilitate informed decisions without overstating their own qualifications.