Visible changes
Cracking, leaning, bowing, settlement, failed joints, deteriorating concrete, displaced blocks, and collapsed sections can all be warning signs. The severity cannot be determined from a photo alone.
Material loss around the wall
Washout behind the wall, voids, sinkholes, exposed footing, and shoreline loss may indicate that water or drainage is moving soil where it should remain. These conditions may worsen if the source is not addressed.
After storms or unusual water action
Storm damage, wave action, and heavy rainfall can reveal older weaknesses. Record the date, location, and changes you observe, then discuss them with a qualified evaluator.