1. Observe and protect
At the Savannah home, document symptoms, limit further damage where it's safe, and gather relevant history.
2. Evaluate house and site
Savannah sits on Coastal Plain marsh and sandy fill with a water table that can sit just a few feet down near the river -- a completely different starting condition than the clay-and-bedrock cities upstate, and one that shapes drainage and moisture planning before any repair method gets picked.
3. Define a written scope
A written scope for a Savannah project should clarify preparation, materials, access, permits, testing, and change-order rules.
4. Compare providers
Verify credentials and compare the reasoning behind each Savannah-area proposal, not only the total.
5. Inspect closeout
Confirm testing, cleanup, documentation, and remaining maintenance responsibilities for the Savannah project.