1. Observe and protect
Record what's showing up, hold off further damage anywhere it's safe to step in, and pull together whatever relevant history exists on the property.
2. Evaluate the house and site
A proper Dayton-area evaluation works through water category, how much time has elapsed, cavities that can't be seen, electrical safety, and material porosity before any response gets planned -- and no emergency-speed response is promised here.
3. Define a written scope
Spell out preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and how change orders work, in writing.
4. Compare providers
Don't just eyeball the bottom line on Dayton proposals -- confirm credentials first, then compare the reasoning and the boundaries each provider built their number around.
5. Inspect closeout
Verify the test results, cleanup quality, paperwork, warranty terms, and any maintenance duties that remain with the homeowner.