Not necessarily, concrete naturally forms some cracks as it cures. A foundation in need of repair would cause other damage such as sheetrock cracks, veneer cracks and possibly binding of doors and windows.
Central Texas has clay soil which shrinks when it is dry and swells when it is wet. This phenomenon can cause foundations to move, which can then cause sheetrock, veneer cracks and other damage to the house. Improperly compacted fill dirt under the foundation can also result in settlement.
This is the question that often plagues home owners, buyers, sellers, real estate agents, appraisers and loan officers and it deserves an honest answer. The person qualified to answer that question is a registered professional engineer in the state of Texas, with experience and expertise in housing. Houses are allowed a certain amount of movement by building code and engineering criteria.
A qualified engineer can make astute observations and measurements and determine whether cracks represent a structural problem that could require thousands of dollars in repairs or if they are merely cosmetic in nature and just need to be patched. The peace of mind and/or freedom from liability could be well worth the cost of the structural inspection.
After an inspection, the engineer can document the condition of the interior and exterior of the house, and determine the degree of deflection in the slab. By applying engineering and building code criteria, he will offer his opinion regarding structural integrity and/or need for repair.
Not necessarily. These may be evidence of a framing problem, which could be easily resolved in most cases.
The engineer can address framing of the house and drainage situations, which could affect the foundation or allow water intrusion into the house. The engineer can also inspect swimming pools, sport courts and other structures on the property.
Not necessarily. Sometimes the problem is as simple as changing drainage around the house or adding gutters.
Slab foundations can be stabilized and in most cases the house can be brought back to a level condition. If repairs are necessary, a qualified and reputable contractor should be contacted.
Most lenders will fund a house for which an engineer has required structural repairs and has inspected the work and certified that the work was satisfactorily performed.