What is the first step when removing a chipped or damaged tile?

The initial step in removing a chipped or damaged tile is to remove the grout around the tile. This is crucial because the grout secures the tile in place, and to lift the tile out without damaging adjacent tiles, you first need to clear away the grout. Removing the grout allows for safe and effective extraction of the damaged tile, minimizing the risk of breaking nearby tiles. Once the grout is removed, the damaged tile can be pried up, and the area can be prepared for replacement by ensuring that the surface is clean and ready for the installation of a new tile.

The other options involve actions that are typically taken after grout removal or are unnecessary at this stage. For instance, replacing the damaged tile can only occur after it has been removed, and cleaning the floor is a follow-up step that should happen once the damaged tile is out. Similarly, removing surrounding tiles may become necessary only if they are also damaged or if the space requires it, but it isn't the first step in addressing just a single chipped tile.