1. Observe and protect
Note what's actually visible, keep the damage from getting worse if it's safe to do so, and pull together any history on the roof.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Deck condition, how the old flashing was tied in around valleys and penetrations, attic airflow, and what last storm season left behind all factor into whether this is a repair or a full tear-off.
3. Define a written scope
Get preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, and exclusions down on paper before anyone starts.
4. Compare providers
Confirm credentials, then compare the reasoning behind each proposal — not just the total at the bottom.
5. Inspect closeout
Walk the finished work, confirm testing and cleanup happened, and get warranty documentation before calling it done.