1. Note it, protect it
Write down what you're seeing, stop further damage where it's safe to, and gather whatever history on the house you can.
2. Look at the house and the lot
What's visible on the surface is rarely the whole story. A plan that sticks accounts for where water's getting in, humidity, material condition, containment, and checking the work afterward.
3. Nail the scope down in writing
Pin down prep work, protection measures, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order terms.
4. Size up more than one provider
Check credentials and look at the reasoning and boundaries in each proposal, not just the number at the bottom.
5. Check the closeout
Confirm the test results, cleanup, paperwork, warranty, and whatever maintenance is still on you afterward.