1. Observe and protect
Take photos, note the timeline, and stop the damage from spreading if it's safe to do so -- that history matters later.
2. Evaluate the house and site
On a West Palm Beach property, that means weighing concrete-block versus frame construction, the shallow water table, and how long the area has been wet -- there's no same-day visit built into this.
3. Define a written scope
Get preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, and change-order terms in writing before anyone starts.
4. Compare providers
Verify every West Palm Beach bidder's credentials first, then compare what each proposal actually covers -- the lowest number rarely tells the whole story.
5. Inspect closeout
Before calling it finished, confirm testing results, cleanup, paperwork, and what's still under warranty.