1. Observe and protect
Record what you're observing, limit additional damage if it's safe to do so, and gather whatever history you have on the property.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Visible mold is a symptom, not a diagnosis. A plan built to last traces water to its entry point, accounts for ongoing crawl space and attic humidity, evaluates how far the affected materials go, contains the work area, and verifies the result once the job is finished.
3. Define a written scope
Nail down preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order terms in writing.
4. Compare providers
Verify credentials and weigh the reasoning and scope boundaries of each proposal, not just the final number.
5. Inspect closeout
Before signing off, confirm testing, cleanup, documentation, warranty terms, and remaining maintenance responsibilities.