Do I have Foundation Problems?
Use this checklist to look for changes that can be associated with foundation or structural movement. One symptom alone does not confirm a foundation problem; patterns, progression, and related signs help determine whether an evaluation is appropriate.
Interior
- Are your floors uneven?
- Do you see cracks around doors or windows?
- Do doors stick or fail to close properly?
- Is trim or molding separating at corners?
- Does your refrigerator door swing on its own?
Exterior
- Check masonry for cracks of any size and pattern
- Look for gaps around doors and windows.
- Inspect the chimney for leaning or excess caulk.
- Check exterior trim for misalignment or gaps.
- Look for settling in brick steps or the stoop.
Yard
- Do you see soil cracks during dry periods?
- Does water collect around your home after rain?
- Is there standing water in the crawl space?
- Does the crawl space stay moist even in dry weather?
Basement
- Check masonry for cracks of any size and pattern
- Look for gaps around doors and windows.
- Inspect the chimney for leaning or excess caulk.
- Check exterior trim for misalignment or gaps.
- Look for settling in brick steps or the stoop.
If several warning signs are appearing together or changing over time, a foundation evaluation can help identify whether the issue is cosmetic, structural, or related to soil and moisture conditions.