Record what you're seeing
Note the location, timing, any weather pattern, and prior repairs. A few photos and simple measurements help right away.
Read the local context
Durham combines nineteenth-century tobacco and textile districts, early streetcar neighborhoods, postwar ranches, and fast-growing suburban edges. Piedmont clay, mature tree cover, humid summers, and rolling watersheds make drainage and existing assemblies part of nearly every exterior or structural project.
Ask what will be hidden
Moisture behind the siding, chalking, failed caulk lines, and sun exposure are what actually dictate preparation and coating choice. The scope in writing should cover prep and verification steps that vanish once work wraps.
Compare scopes in full
Look for protection, access, materials, permits, testing, cleanup, restoration, exclusions, warranty, and change-order rules.
What official local sources add
Durham maintains official floodplain guidance and separate procedures for historic district, landmark, and sign designations. Parcel-level flood status and local historic designation should be checked before structural, exterior, or drainage work is scoped.
Reviewed in 2026, flood zone, historic designation, and permit requirements should still be confirmed with Durham County for the specific parcel.