National Home Inspector Practice Exam 2025 - Free Home Inspector Practice Questions and Study Guide

Assessing signs of settling during a home inspection involves observing specific structural indicators that can reveal underlying issues with a building's foundation. Cracks in walls, door misalignment, and foundation shifts are all critical signs that suggest the building is experiencing settling.

Cracks in walls may indicate that the structure is moving, which can result from soil conditions, moisture changes, or inadequate foundation support. Additionally, doors and windows that do not align or that stick may signal that the framing has shifted due to settling. Foundation shifts, evidenced by visible separations or uneven surfaces, further confirm that the house is undergoing changes in its position relative to the ground it sits on.

These assessments help inspectors determine the extent of settling and whether structural repairs may be needed to ensure the safety and stability of the home. Other options, while they may show signs of wear or issues in a house, do not specifically relate to the assessment of settling. For instance, measuring the height of doors and windows or evaluating the home's age do not provide direct evidence of settling. Peeling paint might indicate water damage or deteriorating conditions but does not directly correlate to foundation settling issues.