1. Observe and protect
Photograph the damage, limit it further only if it's safe, and note roughly when it started.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Given the confluence setting, the Allen County walkthrough weighs water category, elapsed time, hidden cavities, and material porosity before any plan gets made.
3. Define a written scope
Spell out preparation, protection, the materials specified, access, permits, testing, and what qualifies as a valid change order.
4. Compare providers
Verify each Fort Wayne provider's credentials, then set the proposals side by side and compare their reasoning and boundaries, not just price.
5. Inspect closeout
Review the closing moisture readings, cleanup records, warranty terms, and whatever maintenance now falls to the homeowner.