Note the size of cracks, then check to see if they are growing or spreading over time. If your home has a crawl space, it is a good idea to inspect it. Look for standing water. Check to see that insulation is in place and that vents are not blocked by debris. A thorough inspection of the house structure is needed about once a year.
Some people prefer the spring, to check for winter damage.
Other people prefer the fall, to check for summer storm damage and to prepare for winter. If your home has particular trouble spots, you may need to check them several times a year. In this publication we have dealt only with the house structure. You will want to include these inspections in your maintenance plan. A permanent record of structural maintenance will make the job easier.