1. Observe and protect
Photograph what's showing up at the South Bend property, limit further damage where that's safely possible, and pull together whatever construction history exists.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Whether a South Bend property sits on the old downtown plat or a newer subdivision changes what an evaluator should check first -- so this step means placing the house in its era before touching a single crack.
3. Define a written scope
Put it in writing: preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order rules for the South Bend job.
4. Compare providers
Weigh the reasoning and boundaries behind competing South Bend proposals, not just the bottom line, and check credentials before picking one.
5. Inspect closeout
Closeout on a South Bend job isn't done until testing, cleanup, documentation, warranty paperwork, and maintenance responsibilities are confirmed in writing.