Gather the project record
Gather available plans, prior contracts, changes, inspection reports, and progress photographs. Missing records do not prevent a review, but they change what can be confirmed.
Separate visible from concealed conditions
A proposal should state what is based on visible review, what needs opening, testing, or engineering review, and how later discoveries will be handled.
Do not bypass engineering review
Any change affecting the structure or extending the building needs the appropriate review, design, and approvals by licensed professionals and relevant authorities.