1. Take stock first
Note what's showing up, prevent further damage where you safely can, and pull together any relevant history on the home.
2. Look at the whole house and site
The mold you can see is just the tip of what's actually going on. A plan that actually holds up deals with water entry, humidity levels, material condition, containment, and confirming the work afterward.
3. Get it in writing
Nail down preparation, protection measures, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order terms.
4. Look past the bottom line
Check credentials and weigh the reasoning and scope boundaries behind each proposal — the total price alone doesn't tell the whole story.
5. Confirm the finish
Before signing off, verify testing results, cleanup, paperwork, warranty terms, and any ongoing maintenance that falls to you.