1. Document and limit damage
Document the symptoms, limit further damage where safe, and gather any relevant history on the property.
2. Read the house and its site
Visible growth is the symptom, not the cause. A dependable plan traces water entry, weighs humidity and material condition, contains the work, and verifies the result when finished.
3. Write out the scope
Spell out preparation, protective measures, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change orders.
4. Put proposals side by side
Verify credentials, then compare the thinking and boundaries behind each proposal, not simply the total cost.
5. Verify before closeout
Closeout should verify testing, cleanup, documentation, warranty terms, and any maintenance left for the homeowner.