Make the laptop safe
Keep your fingers away from broken glass, and move the hinge as little as possible if the lid is bent. Switch the laptop off before carrying it anywhere. A damaged screen rarely means the whole computer needs replacing.
Find the full model number
Look on the label underneath the laptop or in the original paperwork. The name of the product range is not enough, because two laptops with the same name often use different panels. Send the model number. A serial number is not needed for a first enquiry.
Describe what the screen shows
Lines, dark patches and visible cracks point to a broken panel. A completely black screen has other possible causes. Tell us whether an external monitor works, whether the laptop makes its usual start-up sounds and whether the picture changes as the lid moves.
Back up while the laptop still runs
If the machine starts and part of the screen is readable, copy your important files to an external drive or a cloud account. An external monitor makes the job easier. A cracked screen sometimes fails completely with no warning.
Ask what the quote includes
Panel type, touch support, resolution and availability all affect the price. Ask about any inspection charge, the labour and the cost of extra damage to the lid or hinges. Confirm the work and the expected wait before you agree.