1. Document, protect, and wait
Document what you see, limit further damage where it's safe to do so, and gather relevant history on the home.
2. Assess the house and the property around it
What shows on the surface is only a symptom. A durable fix traces the water entry point, addresses humidity and material condition, keeps the area contained, and checks the result afterward.
3. Define the scope in writing
Put preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order terms in writing.
4. Size up the providers
Confirm credentials, then weigh the logic and boundaries of each proposal against each other—the total is only part of it.
5. Check closeout details
At closeout, confirm testing results, cleanup, documentation, warranty coverage, and any ongoing maintenance responsibilities.