For Immediate Release: Wednesday, October 16, 2024

The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) has released the latest episode of its podcast, “Consumer Connection,” titled “Home Sweet Home.” The episode provides valuable advice on the often-confusing process of hiring home builders and home improvement contractors and can help residents make informed decisions when buying or renovating a home.

In the podcast, OCP Investigator Michelle Escobar, who hosts the podcast, is joined by OCP Investigations Administrator Patty Vitale and OCP Business Education and Registration Unit Manager Shaun Carew. They break down the key differences between new home builders and home improvement contractors, offering practical tips to protect consumers from fraud, poor workmanship and other risks associated with unlicensed work. The discussion touches on the importance of checking contractor credentials, understanding the contract process and ensuring proper documentation for any project changes.

In the episode’s consumer case segment, Ms. Escobar and her guests examine a real-life case where homeowners were left with an unfinished, poorly built home by an unlicensed builder. The team discusses what went wrong and offers advice to help listeners avoid similar pitfalls.

The episode introduces a new “Consumer Quick Tip” segment, featuring OCP investigator and licensed home inspector Matthew Kaufman. With almost three decades of experience, Investigator Kaufman shares helpful information on ensuring home construction meets high-quality standards, including the benefits of independent third-party inspections.

“Whether you’re buying a new home or considering renovations, this episode is packed with the tools you need to navigate the process with confidence,” said OCP Director Eric Friedman. “We encourage all Montgomery County residents to listen and share the episode to stay informed about their rights and how they can protect themselves.”

The “Consumer Connection” podcast is available on major platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music. Future episodes will focus on avoiding scams, making informed purchasing decisions and understanding consumer rights. Listeners are encouraged to email questions and ideas for episodes to consumerconnection@montgomerycountymd.gov.

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