1. Observe and limit damage
Document the symptoms, limit further damage where it's safe to, and gather relevant history on the property.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Substrate condition, moisture barriers, flashing at windows and doors, insulation, and ventilation behind the siding matter as much as the material itself.
3. Put it in writing
Preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order terms should all be explicit.
4. Compare the proposals
Verify credentials and weigh the reasoning and boundaries behind each bid, not just its total.
5. Confirm before signing off
Testing, cleanup, documentation, warranties, and remaining maintenance responsibilities should all be confirmed at closeout.