1. Write down what you’re actually seeing
Location, timing, and pattern — steady or intermittent — are worth capturing before you make the first call.
2. Treat the house as one connected system
Pipe material, pressure, venting, and drainage all interact, and prior work on the home should factor into the read.
3. Ask for the scope in writing
Materials, permits, testing, cleanup, and how unexpected findings get handled should be spelled out ahead of time.
4. Compare providers
Verify credentials and compare the reasoning and boundaries behind each proposal, not only the total.
5. Confirm the closeout, not just the fix
Testing, cleanup, documentation, and ongoing maintenance responsibilities should all be clear before the job is done.