1. Observe and protect
Document what's visible, prevent further water intrusion if it's safe to do so, and note any storm event tied to the timing.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Deck condition under the old roofing, how flashing was tied into valleys and penetrations, attic airflow, and what the last hurricane season did to this house all belong in the evaluation before repair-versus-replace gets decided.
3. Define a written scope
Put preparation, protection, materials, permits, cleanup, and exclusions in writing before work starts.
4. Compare providers
Verify credentials, then compare how each proposal reasons through the job — not just its total.
5. Inspect closeout
Confirm testing, cleanup, and documentation, and get warranty paperwork before considering it finished.