Existing construction
If the new surface runs close to trees, assess root protection and avoid assuming that excavation is straightforward.
Why it matters for your driveway repair: Photograph defects and previous patches so the retained layers and any rebuilding can be discussed separately. For a driveway repair, it helps distinguish a local defect from movement, drainage or base problems that need a wider scope.
Useful photograph: the whole existing surface plus close views of cracks, movement or patches.
