1. Observe and protect
Mark down where it shows up, avoid making it worse if that's safe, and pull together records of any prior repairs.
2. Evaluate the house and site
In Lakeland that often means checking both the attic and any crawlspace, since older homes near the lakes can have moisture issues in either.
3. Define a written scope
Pin down the prep steps, protection measures, materials, permits, testing, cleanup, restoration, exclusions, and change-order process in writing.
4. Compare providers
Set the total price aside for a moment and look at how each provider justifies their approach and where their scope stops.
5. Inspect closeout
Don't sign off until you've seen test results, confirmed cleanup, collected paperwork, and understood warranty terms and any upkeep left to you.