1. Walk the room and the site
Note the condition, take rough measurements, and get a sense of access — including the slope from the street on many Asheville lots.
2. Figure out what the house is really telling you
Drain location, framing, waterproofing transitions, ventilation, electrical capacity, and access all shape what the project actually involves once the surface comes off.
3. Put the scope in writing
Preparation, protection, materials, access logistics, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order terms should all be spelled out before work starts.
4. Compare more than the bottom line
Look at how each provider reasons through the job and where the boundaries of their scope sit — not just the number at the bottom of the page.
5. Walk through it again at the end
Testing, cleanup, documentation, warranty paperwork, and any ongoing maintenance responsibilities should all be confirmed before anyone leaves.