Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection Hires Investigator to Address Complaints Regarding New Home Builders

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, September 4, 2024

The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) has added to its team of investigators a new home inspector. Matthew Kaufman is part of OCP’s ongoing efforts to ensure quality and safety in the construction of homes and to effectively address consumer disputes against new home builders.

Investigator Kaufman has 27 years of experience in the home inspection and construction industry. Throughout his career, he has provided education and consultation to homeowners, home buyers and real estate agents. His expertise spans a diverse range of properties, from antique homes to new constructions, small condos to commercial complexes and unique structures like geodesic domes and log homes.

"Every resident and family deserves to live in the safest homes possible,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “By bringing Matthew Kaufman on board, we are reinforcing our dedication to consumer protection and building standard in our Office of Consumer Protection. With his extensive experience, Matthew will play a crucial role in addressing complaints and holding home builders accountable to meet our standards. This will help ensure that new homes in our County are built to the utmost quality and integrity."

His extensive experience will be crucial in thoroughly examining new homes and addressing concerns raised by consumers regarding home builders' work. With the increasing number of new home construction projects in Montgomery County, the role of the new home inspector is essential in upholding high standards resolving disputes.

“Buying a new home usually is the most expensive purchase we make as consumers. Disputes regarding the quality of workmanship and representations made by new home sellers may involve thousands of dollars. The Office of Consumer Protection registers all the new home builders in Montgomery County. The Department of Permitting Services issues construction permits and enforces the construction codes. Having an expert home inspector enables our office to better investigate and resolve disputes between consumers and new home builders,” said OCP Director Eric Friedman. “For many years, our office has hired an automotive expert investigator to resolve consumer disputes regarding auto repairs and sales. Now, we are fortunate to also have a home construction expert joining our staff of investigators.” 

The Office of Consumer Protection is committed to providing consumers with peace of mind and ensuring that home builders adhere to industry regulations and best practices. Consumers with concerns about the construction of their new homes are encouraged to contact the office for assistance.

For more information about the services provided by the Office of Consumer Protection or to file a consumer complaint, call MC 311 or 240-777-0311, or visit their website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ocp.

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Release ID: 24-388
Media Contact: Brittany Freeman 240-777-3732
Categories: Consumer