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Soil expansion and contraction due to moisture changes is a significant cause of foundation movement, which is a key aspect that home inspectors assess. This phenomenon occurs primarily in clay soils, which can absorb water and expand when wet, and then shrink as they dry out. These shifts in the soil can exert considerable pressure on a home's foundation, leading to cracking, settling, or heaving.

Home inspectors pay close attention to this issue because it can indicate potential structural problems that might lead to costly repairs. Understanding soil characteristics and moisture dynamics helps inspectors identify areas of concern and assess the overall stability of a property's foundation.

While other factors like excess weight, poor drainage, and landscaping can also impact foundation stability, the role of moisture-induced soil movement is particularly prevalent and critical in assessing the underlying issues affecting a home’s foundation.