Foundations: Don't wait until you hear the creaking

Engineering and structural-repair professionals say it is relatively easy to spot foundation problems in structures that are more than 10 years old.

If you are considering buying a house, look for patched-over cracks in brick or drywall and doors that have been planed. Also notice if there are cracks in sidewalks and streets in the neighborhood.

In newer developments, it's harder to know if the homes will withstand a shift in soil. Therefore, it might be a good idea to have a geotechnical engineer do an inspection — in addition to having a normal home inspection — before you buy.

Home inspectors may not have the expertise to assess soil conditions. (Licensed professionals can be found at the Web site of the Associated Soil and Foundation Engineers, www.asfe.org)

This is especially important if you are considering buying a home in problematic areas. "My home inspector said my house had no problems," said Steven Derse, who bought his house in Nashville, Tenn., in 2002. "Then it started to move and fell apart like a cracker box."