1. Start with a plain description
Location, timing, and whether it’s a one-time thing or a repeat problem — get that down before the first call.
2. Look at the house as a system
Fixture behavior, pipe age, pressure, and drainage all connect — treating one symptom in isolation often misses the cause.
3. Get the scope on paper
Materials, prep work, permits, cleanup, and how change orders get handled should be written down, not assumed.
4. Talk to more than one provider
The lowest number isn’t always the clearest scope — compare what each one is actually promising to do.
5. Confirm the job actually closed out
Testing, cleanup, and any paperwork or warranty terms should be settled before you consider it done.