10 Signs Your House Might Have Structural Problems
Owning a home is one of life’s biggest investments. But what happens if your property starts showing signs of structural problems? Left untreated, these issues can become costly, unsafe, and stressful. The good news is that many problems can be spotted early—if you know what to look for.
At our structural engineering practice, based in Kent and working nationwide, we’ve put together a guide to the 10 most common warning signs your home may have structural issues.
1. Cracks in Walls or Ceilings
Not all cracks are cause for alarm. Hairline cracks often occur as plaster dries or as a home naturally settles over time. However, wide, jagged, or diagonal cracks—especially those running from windows, door frames, or across ceilings—can be signs of structural movement, subsidence, or shifting foundations. If cracks widen over time or reappear after repairs, it’s best to have them assessed by a structural engineer.
2. Doors and Windows That Stick
Doors and windows should open and close with ease. If they begin to stick, jam, or misalign, it may point to movement in the property’s frame. Structural movement can cause distortion in walls, making frames shift out of square. Seasonal changes in humidity can sometimes explain sticking, but persistent issues could indicate foundation problems or subsidence. This is particularly important in older UK homes, where timber frames are common.
3. Sloping or Uneven Floors
Floors that slope or bounce underfoot are more than just an annoyance—they can indicate structural weakness. Uneven floors may result from subsidence, rotten floor joists, or compromised foundations. In some cases, it could be a sign of long-term water damage. If you can place a ball on the floor and it rolls across the room, or if furniture tilts noticeably, it’s worth calling a structural engineer for a survey.
4. Bulging or Leaning Walls
Walls should be straight and stable. If you notice a bulge, bow, or lean—whether inside or outside your property—it may suggest serious structural issues such as foundation movement, water penetration, or wall tie failure. This is especially common in older brickwork found in many Kent and London homes. Bulging walls can be dangerous, as they may collapse without warning, so prompt professional advice is vital.
5. Gaps Around Windows or Doors
When a property shifts, the walls can pull away from window and door frames, leaving visible gaps. These gaps can cause drafts, leaks, and poor insulation, but more importantly, they may indicate underlying instability. In some cases, it can be linked to subsidence or weakened support structures. If the gaps appear to grow larger over time, it’s a red flag that structural movement is occurring.
6. Cracks in Chimneys
Chimneys are tall, heavy structures that experience a lot of stress. Cracks, leaning, or tilting chimneys are strong indicators of structural weakness. Because they sit above the main house structure, problems with a chimney can often reveal wider issues with foundations or roof supports. Chimneys can also pose a safety risk if left unchecked, as falling masonry can be hazardous. A structural engineer can assess whether repairs or reinforcement are necessary.
7. Water Damage and Damp
Water is one of the biggest threats to a building’s integrity. Persistent leaks, rising damp, or long-term moisture can weaken timber joists, rust steel supports, and cause brickwork to deteriorate. Damp patches around foundations or along basement walls can indicate water ingress that might compromise stability. In coastal areas or older properties, water damage should be taken particularly seriously, as it can accelerate structural decay if ignored.
8. Roof Sagging or Bowing
A roofline should be straight and level. If you notice your roof sagging, bowing, or dipping in the middle, it may suggest that the supporting timbers are failing or that the load is not properly distributed. Over time, this can lead to leaks, collapsed roof sections, or further damage to supporting walls. Sagging roofs are particularly common in older homes and should always be assessed before undertaking loft conversions or major renovations.
9. Separation Between Walls and Ceilings/Floors
If you see gaps forming where the ceiling meets the wall, or where the floor joins the skirting, it can indicate uneven settlement. These gaps may look minor at first but are often early signs of structural movement. In severe cases, they can point to foundation problems or shifting load-bearing walls. Tracking whether the gaps increase in size over time is important for understanding the seriousness of the issue.
10. Foundation Movement
The foundation is the backbone of your property. Signs of movement include external cracks in brickwork, sloping floors, or doors that no longer align. In some cases, you may even notice parts of the house pulling away from extensions or garages. Subsidence, heave, or settlement can all affect foundations, and the sooner these problems are investigated, the easier and cheaper they are to fix.
What To Do If You Spot These Signs
Not every crack or slope means disaster—but these symptoms should never be dismissed. If you notice any of the above, it’s important to get professional advice quickly. A structural engineer can assess the severity of the problem, carry out calculations, and recommend the most cost-effective solution to keep your property safe.
Why Choose Us?
We’re a team of experienced structural engineers based in Kent, working with homeowners, buyers, and developers across the UK. Whether you need a structural inspection, calculations for an extension, or advice on foundation repairs, we’re here to help.
Structural issues don’t always mean your home is unsafe, but early detection is key. If you’ve noticed cracks, sticking doors, or uneven floors, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact our team today for expert structural advice—wherever you are in the UK.