National Home Inspector Practice Exam 2026 - Free Home Inspector Practice Questions and Study Guide

Signs indicating potential foundation problems in a home often include visible physical distortions and changes in structural alignment. Cracks in walls can appear due to settling or shifting of the foundation, as the weight of the structure is transferred unevenly. These cracks may be vertical, horizontal, or diagonal, and their patterns can provide clues about the nature of the underlying issues.

Uneven floors can signify that the foundation is no longer level, which may be caused by soil erosion, expansive soil, or other adverse conditions. When a home’s foundation is compromised, gravity impacts the entire structure, resulting in floors that slope or bounce rather than remain level.

Doors that do not close properly may indicate that door frames are shifting with a failing foundation. If the foundation is settling or heaving, it can warp the structural framework, affecting how doors and windows align and function.

While other choices may point to maintenance needs within different areas of the home, they do not specifically pertain to foundational integrity. For example, leaky roofs and damaged gutters are more related to roofing and drainage issues than to foundation problems, while damp basements could suggest moisture issues but not necessarily direct foundation challenges. Similarly, peeling paint and loose tiles might indicate surface wear or cosmetic problems rather than structural concerns