It ran when you put it away, but won’t start now

Did the engine run at all?

An engine that caught briefly and stopped gives someone a different starting point from one that never began running. A noise from the starter is another detail to mention. Use what you remember from the attempt; don’t try again just to fill in the description.

The advice here is for gasoline machines. A plug can be for a gas engine’s electric starter, so check the power type if you’re unsure which instructions apply.

What do you know about the time in storage?

Note roughly when it last ran and what you know about the fuel and preparation before storage. If someone else put it away, or you simply don’t remember, say that. A blank is better than an invented treatment or service history.

The timing alone doesn’t tell anyone which part failed. When you call, ask about diagnosing the starting problem rather than booking a seasonal check and hoping the fault is included.

And if the machine is dead in the garage and loading it is half the problem, this is a sensible time to ask whether someone can do the first assessment at your place. Tell them where it sits and let them tell you what access they need.