1. Start by observing, not treating
Note what you’re seeing, take reasonable steps to stop further damage if it’s safe to do so, and gather any relevant background — prior leaks, repairs, or previous testing.
2. Evaluate the house and site
What’s visible is only the surface of the issue. A plan that actually holds up addresses where water is entering the home, the humidity levels involved, the shape the materials are in, how the work area gets contained, and how the results get checked once the job is finished.
3. Put the scope in writing
The written scope should spell out prep work, how the rest of the home gets protected, materials to be used, how access is handled, permits required, testing included, cleanup expectations, finish restoration, what’s excluded, and how changes to the job get handled.
4. Compare providers
Check credentials, then look past the bottom-line number to understand how each provider arrived at their approach and where they’ve drawn the line on what’s included.
5. Close the job out properly
Before calling it finished, confirm what testing was performed, that cleanup is thorough, that you have documentation in hand, what the warranty actually covers, and what maintenance remains your responsibility going forward.