Florida Home Inspector Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Exam Prep

The condition of missing lintels is unlikely to cause substantial movement of a building. Lintels are horizontal structural members placed over openings such as doors and windows to support the weight of the structure above. If lintels are missing, the immediate concern is typically with the stability and integrity of the openings themselves rather than the overall movement of the building. The presence or absence of lintels primarily affects the localized areas where they are missing, rather than causing broader structural movement.

In contrast, missing frost footings can affect stability in areas with freeze-thaw cycles, as these footings are designed to prevent shifting due to soil expansion. Soft soil can lead to significant foundational problems as it may not adequately support the weight of the structure, resulting in settling or tilting. Poor grading can also result in water accumulation around the foundation, which erodes support and leads to movement.