What people notice
The Texas Real Estate Commission standard inspection report form lists the places a home inspector comments on under Structural Systems: foundations, grading and drainage, walls inside and outside, ceilings and floors, doors, and windows (form REI 7-6, read November 6, 2026). Those are also where homeowners tend to notice something. We list the observations below without any claim about cause.
- Cracks in walls, in brick, in ceilings or in a slab or driveway.
- Doors or windows that stick or no longer close the way they did.
- Floors that feel uneven or that slope.
- Gaps where a wall meets a ceiling or trim.
- Cracks in the soil around the house when it is dry, which the USDA says is normal behavior for some clay soils (see the clay soil guide).
What to do next, in plain steps
- Take dated photos and notes. Note where, and when you first saw it.
- Ask for an inspection from a licensed structural engineer. The profile of one San Antonio engineering firm is on this site as an example of an engineer, not a recommendation.
- If you also want a company to look, get written quotes from at least three. See the quote guide.
- Do not sign a contract at the first visit. Read the Texas contract rules.
- Check your policy. See the insurance guide.
Source for the list of inspected areas: TREC REI 7-6. The list of observations is ours and is not an engineering finding.
Frequently asked questions
Do cracks or sticking doors mean my foundation is failing?
Not by themselves. We cannot tell you what a crack or a door means. Many things can cause the same signs. That is why this guide says to ask for an inspection and to contact a licensed structural engineer.
Who should I call first?
For a diagnosis, a licensed structural engineer. Many repair companies offer free inspections, and some say they find that no repair is needed. A free inspection is also a sales visit, so consider a separate opinion.
Is there an emergency?
If you see sudden, large changes, or if you worry about safety, leave the area if you feel unsafe and call a licensed structural engineer or your local emergency services. We cannot assess that for you.