1. Take stock first
Note what you’re seeing, prevent further damage if it’s safe to do so, and gather any relevant history on the home.
2. Evaluate the house and site
How it’s flashed in, what the sill and frame are made of, the glass package, and the trim work afterward all shape the outcome as much as the window itself.
3. Put the scope in writing
Spell out prep work, protection measures, materials, access needs, permits, testing, cleanup, finish repair, exclusions, and how change orders are handled.
4. Weigh your options
Check credentials, and look past the bottom-line number to the reasoning and boundaries behind each proposal.
5. Close the loop
Before calling it done, confirm testing was completed, cleanup finished, documentation handed over, warranties in writing, and any ongoing maintenance made clear.