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Privacy Policy

Citadel Mortgages Privacy & Security Statement

Last Updated On Dec 02 2024

 

Privacy and Legal Disclaimer

Privacy Statement

Citadel Mortgages values your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Statement outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard the information provided to us, in compliance with applicable Canadian privacy laws, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

By using this website or engaging with our services, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as described in this policy.


Information Collection and Usage

To facilitate mortgage services and provide accurate recommendations, Citadel Mortgages collects and processes the following types of personal information:

  • Contact Details: Name, address, phone number, and email address.
  • Financial Information: Income, debts, assets, credit history, and related documentation.
  • Transaction Data: Information pertaining to mortgage applications and inquiries.
  • Website Interaction: Cookies and log files track browsing preferences and enhance user experience.

Purpose of Collection:

  1. To process and complete mortgage applications.
  2. To comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
  3. To provide personalized advice and efficient service.
  4. To enhance customer experience and website functionality.

Data Security: Citadel Mortgages employs industry-standard security protocols to safeguard your personal data. Access is restricted to authorized personnel, and information is stored securely to prevent unauthorized access.

Data Sharing: We do not sell, trade, rent, or transfer your personal information to third parties. Information may only be shared under the following conditions:

  • When required by law (e.g., compliance with court orders, subpoenas, or regulatory inquiries).
  • With trusted third parties to prevent fraud or facilitate secure transactions.
  • In cases where explicit client consent is obtained.

Cookies and Log Files

Our website utilizes cookies to:

  • Store user preferences for enhanced browsing experiences.
  • Simplify access to features by remembering login details.
  • Track website usage patterns to improve functionality.

Cookies are small data files stored on your browser. You may configure your browser to reject cookies or notify you when cookies are being sent. Disabling cookies may affect certain features of our website.

Log Files: We collect IP addresses and other metadata to monitor traffic, analyze trends, and enhance user experience. This information is anonymized and is not linked to personally identifiable information.


External Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites for informational purposes. Citadel Mortgages does not endorse or take responsibility for the content, privacy policies, or practices of these external sites. Users are advised to review third-party privacy statements before engaging with their services.


Subscription Services

By subscribing to Citadel Mortgages’ email services, you agree to receive periodic updates, promotional content, and service-related announcements. Users can unsubscribe at any time by:

  • Clicking the “Unsubscribe” link at the bottom of our emails.
  • Contacting us directly via the Contact Us page.
  • Replying “Stop” to any SMS or email.

We promptly honor all opt-out requests, ensuring compliance with the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL).


Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) Compliance

Citadel Mortgages adheres to CASL, which regulates the distribution of commercial electronic messages (CEMs). Our Commitment:

  • Emails will include accurate sender information and a clear identification as promotional content (where applicable).
  • Opt-out requests are honored without delay.
  • The sender’s physical address will be included in all communications.

If you wish to unsubscribe, follow the instructions provided in our emails or contact us directly.


Esso and Mobil Price Privileges™

As part of certain promotional programs, Citadel Mortgages offers Price Privileges™ fuel discount cards. These cards provide per-litre savings on fuel purchases at participating Esso™ and Mobil™ stations across Canada.

Terms and Conditions:

  • Fuel discount cards are not gift cards and do not cover the full cost of fuel purchases.
  • Savings apply only to qualifying purchases.
  • For complete terms, visit: giftcards.esso.ca/terms.

Trademarks:

  • Esso and Price Privileges are trademarks of Imperial Oil Limited.
  • Mobil and Speedpass+ are trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or its subsidiaries.

Travel Incentive Terms

Citadel Mortgages collaborates with trusted partners to provide travel incentives as part of its customer programs. To learn more about the terms and eligibility for travel incentives, please visit: Travel Savings Terms.


Social Awareness Program and Planting Trees

As part of our commitment to social responsibility, Citadel Mortgages offers the Social Awareness Program, which includes:

  1. Tree Planting Initiative: Clients may request a tree to be planted in their name or the name of a loved one.
  2. Charitable Donations: Clients can select from a pre-approved list of charities to receive a donation.

Important Notes:

  • Citadel Mortgages reserves the right to approve or decline charity recommendations based on internal vetting processes.
  • Donations are subject to internal approval and are not guaranteed.
  • Participation in these programs does not create a contractual obligation on Citadel Mortgages to fulfill specific preferences.

Mortgage Rate Disclaimer

All mortgage rates displayed on our website or provided by Citadel Mortgages agents are for informational purposes only. Rates are subject to change based on:

  • Provincial regulations.
  • Individual financial qualifications.
  • Lender policies.

Important: A mortgage agreement becomes binding only upon issuance of a Broker Complete Notification. If a lender cancels your mortgage financing or if at any time Citadel Mortgages is instructed to not proceed with mortgage


Regulatory Compliance

Citadel Mortgages complies with the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA), as enforced by FINTRAC. Key Compliance Measures:

  1. Identity Verification: All clients must verify their identity through approved methods, such as Veriff or any other service provider that Citadel Mortgages is partnered with.
  2. Record Retention: Personal and transaction records are retained for six (6) years after the latest application or loan expiry date.
  3. Suspicious Activity Reporting: Large transactions (over $10,000) or unusual financial behaviors are reported to FINTRAC.

For more details, visit FINTRAC.

Why Identity Verification is Required by FINTRAC

As of October 11, 2024, FINTRAC (Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada) requires all mortgage and insurance brokerages to verify their clients’ identities through third-party systems, such as Veriff, under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA). This measure helps prevent financial crimes like money laundering and terrorist financing by ensuring a secure, transparent process for identity verification.

According to FINTRAC regulations (PCMLTFA, Section 57.1), brokerages must use approved third-party services to complete this process. If you have concerns or are dissatisfied with this requirement, you may file a complaint directly with FINTRAC by visiting their official website.

You can also review this FINTRAC website as well – https://fintrac-canafe.canada.ca/re-ed/mortgage-hypotheque-eng

Your compliance is vital to our adherence to national security standards and ensuring the safety of Canada’s financial system.

Legal Disclaimer

As of October 11, 2024, all mortgage and insurance brokerages in Canada must comply with the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA), as enforced by FINTRAC (Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada). These regulations are aimed at preventing money laundering, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes. As part of this compliance, brokerages are required to implement specific measures to verify client identities and monitor financial transactions.

Key Requirements:

Identity Verification:

Brokerages must verify the identity of all clients through approved verification processes, including online tools like Veriff, to ensure compliance with FINTRAC regulations.

The verification must occur before entering into any business relationship, such as mortgage approvals or insurance policy issuance.

This applies to both individuals and entities (such as corporations and trusts)

Record Keeping:

Brokerages must maintain detailed records of client identification, including documents used for verification, for a minimum of seven years after the termination of the business relationship.

Information must be kept secure and made available to FINTRAC upon request.

Monitoring and Reporting:

Brokerages are required to continuously monitor transactions for suspicious activity and report any transactions that appear unusual, especially those involving large sums or high-risk clients.

Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) must be submitted to FINTRAC promptly upon detection of unusual or suspicious behavior.

Large cash transactions (above $10,000) must be reported to FINTRAC.

Compliance Program:

Brokerages must establish and implement a full compliance program that includes a risk assessment, written policies and procedures, regular employee training, and appointment of a compliance officer responsible for overseeing compliance with FINTRAC regulations.

Brokerages must also conduct regular reviews of their compliance program to ensure its effectiveness.

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Non-compliance with FINTRAC’s regulations may result in severe penalties, including fines, sanctions, or loss of brokerage licenses. In cases of deliberate non-compliance or failure to prevent money laundering, criminal charges may apply.

These measures are critical for maintaining the integrity of Canada’s financial systems and for ensuring that mortgage and insurance brokerages adhere to international standards in preventing financial crime.

For more information on FINTRAC requirements and compliance, please refer to FINTRAC’s official website


Fraud Prevention Policy

Citadel Mortgages maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for mortgage fraud. Any suspicion of fraudulent activity should be reported immediately through our Contact Us page. All reports are handled confidentially, and investigations are conducted promptly.


Licensing and Office Locations

Citadel Mortgages operates under the following licenses:

  • Ontario: FSRA 12993
  • Saskatchewan: FCAA 509446
  • Nova Scotia: 2021-3000010
  • Alberta, PEI, Nunavut, Newfoundland: 21-07-CI083-1
  • New Brunswick: 210031130
  • British Columbia: X301267
  • Manitoba

For a full list of office locations, visit: Contact Us.


Google Analytics and AdWords

We use Google Analytics and AdWords Remarketing to:

  • Analyze website traffic and improve functionality.
  • Display targeted advertisements based on user activity.

For more information or to manage your preferences:


Legal Notices

  1. No Warranty: Citadel Mortgages does not guarantee the accuracy of website content.
  2. Limitation of Liability: Citadel Mortgages is not liable for damages arising from website use.
  3. Copyright: Unauthorized use or reproduction of website content is strictly prohibited.

Our Mortgage Brokers

At Citadel Mortgages, our team includes mortgage agents, mortgage brokers, sub-mortgage brokers, mortgage associates, restricted mortgage brokers, associate mortgage brokers, hiring directors, and underwriters. All team members are independent, commission-based contractors.

While their licenses are registered under Citadel Mortgages, and they operate independently, they are required to follow the brokerage’s policies, procedures, processes, and all requirements as per industry regulations. This ensures compliance with the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct in the mortgage industry.

We provide our contractors with:

  • Extensive Training Programs: Covering compliance, regulatory requirements, client engagement, and business development.
  • Access to Tools and Resources: Including CRM systems, loan origination software (LOS), marketing templates, and lender connections.
  • Dedicated Support: A team of underwriters, compliance officers, and experienced mentors to guide them through the process.
  • Ongoing Development Opportunities: Regular workshops, coaching sessions, and access to industry insights to help refine their skills.

It is important to note that, as independent contractors, our team members manage their schedules, build their client base, and operate their businesses under the Citadel Mortgages umbrella. However, they are expected to adhere to the brokerage’s policies and regulatory requirements at all times to maintain compliance and protect the integrity of the brokerage.

This structure empowers our team members to grow their businesses while ensuring they meet all legal, regulatory, and professional standards.


Mortgage Marketplace & Third-Party Referral Policy

As part of our commitment to providing clients with comprehensive mortgage solutions, Citadel Mortgages may, with your consent, refer your information to third-party lenders and financial institutions participating in our Mortgage Marketplace.

Purpose of Referral

The Mortgage Marketplace is designed to ensure clients are presented with a broad range of mortgage products, rates, and financing options that may not be available through a single lender. Referrals are made based on lender guidelines and the information provided by the client at the time of inquiry or application.

Third-Party Contact

When your file is referred:

  • Participating lenders may contact you directly to discuss mortgage or financing options.

  • Citadel Mortgages will continue to work with you internally as your mortgage brokerage, allowing you to review, compare, and evaluate all available options.

  • Referral to third-party lenders does not obligate you to proceed with any lender or product.

Marketplace Provider

The Mortgage Marketplace is provided through Citadel Financial Wealth Group, an affiliated company of Citadel Mortgages. Participating lenders may change from time to time and currently include, but are not limited to:

  • Manulife Bank

  • RBC

  • BMO

  • National Bank

Consent & Information Sharing

By submitting a form, inquiry, or application through Citadel Mortgages, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information for the purposes of:

  • Evaluating mortgage and financing eligibility

  • Referring your information to participating Mortgage Marketplace lenders

  • Allowing such lenders to contact you directly regarding available products

All information is shared in accordance with applicable privacy legislation, including PIPEDA and provincial privacy requirements.

Withdrawal of Consent

You may withdraw your consent to be contacted by Mortgage Marketplace lenders at any time by notifying Citadel Mortgages in writing. Withdrawal of consent may limit the range of financing options available to you.

Participating lenders and partners are subject to change without notice.


Reverse Mortgage Marketplace – Additional Lenders

For clients seeking reverse mortgage solutions, Citadel Mortgages may also refer your information to specialized reverse mortgage lenders that participate in our Mortgage Marketplace.

Purpose of Referral

Reverse mortgage referrals are made to ensure eligible clients have access to regulated reverse mortgage products designed for homeowners aged 55 and older. These referrals allow clients to compare features, rates, fees, and repayment structures specific to reverse mortgage products available in Canada.

Participating Reverse Mortgage Lenders

Reverse mortgage services may be provided through one or more of the following Mortgage Marketplace partners, subject to eligibility and lender guidelines:

  • Bloom Financial

  • HomeEquity Bank

  • EQ Bank

Direct Lender Contact

When your file is referred for reverse mortgage options:

  • These lenders may contact you directly to discuss product details and eligibility.

  • Citadel Mortgages will continue to work with you internally to help explain, compare, and evaluate available reverse mortgage options.

  • You are under no obligation to proceed with any lender or product.

Consent & Information Use

By submitting your information or requesting reverse mortgage options, you consent to the disclosure of your information to participating reverse mortgage lenders for the purpose of evaluating eligibility and presenting available financing options, in accordance with applicable privacy laws.

Participating reverse mortgage lenders are subject to change from time to time based on product availability and regulatory requirements.


Second Mortgage Marketplace – Additional Lenders

For clients seeking second mortgage or home equity solutions, Citadel Mortgages may refer your information to specialized lenders that participate in our Mortgage Marketplace, where appropriate based on lender guidelines and the information you have provided.

Purpose of Referral

Second mortgage referrals are made to ensure clients have access to alternative financing solutions, including home equity–based lending, where traditional first mortgage options may not be suitable or sufficient. This allows clients to compare rates, terms, and structures available for second-position financing.

Participating Second Mortgage Lenders

Second mortgage services may be provided through one or more of the following Mortgage Marketplace partners, subject to eligibility and lender guidelines:

  • Fairstone Financial

Direct Lender Contact

When your file is referred for second mortgage options:

  • Participating lenders may contact you directly to discuss financing options.

  • Citadel Mortgages will continue to work with you internally to help explain, compare, and evaluate available second mortgage solutions.

  • You are under no obligation to proceed with any lender or product.

Consent & Information Use

By submitting your information or requesting second mortgage options, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your information to participating second mortgage lenders for the purpose of evaluating eligibility and presenting available financing options, in accordance with applicable privacy laws.

Participating second mortgage lenders are subject to change from time to time based on product availability, underwriting guidelines, and regulatory requirements.


Rent-to-Own Marketplace – Additional Partners

For clients seeking rent-to-own housing solutions, Citadel Mortgages may refer your information to specialized rent-to-own providers that participate in our Mortgage Marketplace, where appropriate based on program guidelines and the information you have provided.

Purpose of Referral

Rent-to-own referrals are made to support clients who may not currently qualify for a traditional mortgage but are working toward future homeownership. These programs are designed to provide a structured pathway to purchase while improving mortgage readiness over time.

Participating Rent-to-Own Partners

Rent-to-own services may be provided through one or more of the following Mortgage Marketplace partners, subject to eligibility and program criteria:

  • Requity Homes

Direct Partner Contact

When your file is referred for rent-to-own options:

  • The participating partner may contact you directly to discuss program details, eligibility, and next steps.

  • Citadel Mortgages will continue to work with you internally to provide guidance on future mortgage qualification and available financing options.

  • You are under no obligation to proceed with any rent-to-own program.

Consent & Information Use

By submitting your information or requesting rent-to-own options, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your information to participating rent-to-own partners for the purpose of evaluating eligibility and presenting available housing solutions, in accordance with applicable privacy laws.


International Mortgage Marketplace – Europe & UAE

For clients seeking mortgage and real estate financing outside of Canada, including Europe and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Citadel Mortgages may refer your information to international mortgage partners that participate in our Mortgage Marketplace, where appropriate based on program guidelines and the information you have provided.

Purpose of Referral

International mortgage referrals are intended to support clients purchasing or refinancing property outside of Canada. These programs may include country-specific lending rules, residency requirements, currency considerations, and local legal or regulatory frameworks that differ from Canadian mortgage products.

Participating International Mortgage Partner

International mortgage services may be provided through the following Mortgage Marketplace partner, subject to eligibility and regional lending criteria:

  • Upscore

Direct Partner Contact

When your file is referred for international mortgage options:

  • The participating partner may contact you directly to discuss eligibility, documentation requirements, and financing options in the applicable jurisdiction.

  • Citadel Mortgages will no longer work with you internally to coordinate the referral or provide guidance on the overall financing strategy.

  • You are under no obligation to proceed with any international mortgage program or lender.

Consent & Information Use

By submitting your information or requesting international mortgage options, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your information to participating international mortgage partners for the purpose of evaluating eligibility and presenting available financing solutions, in accordance with applicable privacy laws.

International Mortgage Marketplace partners and available jurisdictions are subject to change based on lender availability, local regulations, and program criteria.


United States Mortgage Marketplace – Simply Approved Mortgages LLC

For clients seeking mortgage and real estate financing in the United States, Citadel Mortgages may refer your information to its affiliated U.S. mortgage brokerage, Simply Approved Mortgages LLC, where appropriate based on program guidelines and the information you have provided.

Purpose of Referral

U.S. mortgage referrals are intended to support clients purchasing, refinancing, or investing in real estate located in the United States. Mortgage products, qualification criteria, disclosures, and regulatory requirements differ from those in Canada and are governed by applicable U.S. federal and state laws.

Affiliate Relationship

Simply Approved Mortgages LLC is its own company and operates independently in accordance with applicable U.S. licensing and regulatory requirements. Mortgage services provided through Simply Approved Mortgages LLC are subject to U.S. laws, regulations, and lender guidelines.

Direct Contact & Representation

When your file is referred for U.S. mortgage options:

  • Simply Approved Mortgages LLC and/or its lending partners may contact you directly regarding eligibility and available mortgage products.

  • Citadel Mortgages does not provide mortgage brokering services for U.S. properties but may facilitate the referral and coordination between the client and the U.S. affiliate.

  • You are under no obligation to proceed with any U.S. mortgage product or lender.

Consent & Information Use

By submitting your information or requesting U.S. mortgage options, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information to Simply Approved Mortgages LLC and its participating U.S. lenders for the purpose of evaluating eligibility and presenting available mortgage and financing options, in accordance with applicable Canadian and U.S. privacy and data protection laws.



Applicable Law

This Privacy and Legal Disclaimer is governed by the laws of Ontario, Canada. All disputes will be resolved exclusively in Ontario courts.

For any questions or concerns, please contact us via our Contact Us page.