Do Home Inspectors check for Structural Issues?

Visible structural issues are typically indicated by cracks on the exterior walls, which may also extend to the interior walls. It is important to note that vertical and horizontal cracks are often not indicative of structural problems but are instead caused by expansion and contraction. These are most commonly observed in the mortar of brick and cinder block structures.

Common structural concerns manifest as "stair-stepped" cracks, resembling a staircase pattern etched into the exterior walls. Interior walls frequently exhibit structural cracks extending from the ceilings to the corners of doors and windows. Furthermore, structural issues are evident in cracks that are 1/4 of an inch or wider.

When these signs are observed during a property inspection, the inspector typically documents them in the report and recommends that a licensed structural engineer or general contractor evaluate the home to determine the presence or absence of any structural issues.