1. Observe and protect
Write down what you're seeing and when, prevent further damage where it's safe to do so, and pull together any equipment history you have.
2. Evaluate the house and site
A thorough evaluation looks at duct leakage, insulation, and electrical capacity across a large floor plan—not just the equipment that's obviously failing.
3. Define a written scope
Get prep and protection, materials, permits, testing, and cleanup in writing, plus what happens if the scope changes mid-project.
4. Compare providers
Compare the logic behind competing proposals, not just which total looks smallest.
5. Inspect closeout
Before signing off, confirm the system was tested, the site cleaned up, and warranty paperwork handed over.