1. Observe and protect
Note what’s happening, stop further damage if it’s safe to, and gather whatever history exists on the fixture or line involved.
2. Evaluate the house and site
A solid diagnosis covers fixture behavior, pipe material, pressure, drainage, venting, shutoff locations, access, and prior work.
3. Define a written scope
Put it in writing — prep, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, restoring finishes, exclusions, and the change-order process.
4. Compare providers
Verify credentials and compare the reasoning and boundaries behind each proposal -- not only the total.
5. Inspect closeout
Before signing off, confirm testing, that cleanup is done, get documentation and warranty paperwork, and know what maintenance is still yours.