There are many different factors that can cause foundation movement. Some of those causes include:
Hydrostatic pressure
When soil around the building becomes saturated with rain and groundwater, the weight of this water pushes against the walls of the building as the water level rises. Consistent pressure will cause walls to bow and crack.
Changes in Moisture Content Causing Shrinking and Swelling of Clays
Clay soils undergo a change in volume when the moisture content of the soil changes. When expansive clays are placed against basement walls, the swelling of these soils can induce lateral pressures. Shrink and swell can also reduce the shear strength of the backfill, and thus increase the pressure.
Improper Back Filling
Clay backfills require stronger basement walls to withstand the horizontal pressures.
Erosion
Wind, water and ice can break down and remove solids in the soil below the building, causing damage to the foundation.
Frost Heave
Water that has accumulated in backfill, and then freezes can cause large lateral pressure, much greater than even hydrostatic pressure.
Poor Ground Preparation
Improperly graded building sites can lead to foundation problems. Grading should always divert water away from the building, so water is not allowed to seep under the foundation.
Evaporation
Dry and hot conditions can cause soil to pull away from the foundation, causing cracks to appear throughout the building.
Compression of a Soft Layer in the Ground
When stress is applied to the soil, the particles pack together more tightly, therefore reducing its bulk volume, causing settling and a sinking foundation.
Plumbing Leaks
Water from broken, frozen or leaky pipes can cause major erosion and resulting foundation problems.
Poor Soil Conditions
Poor soil, debris, organic components, etc., can cause consolidation and settling, which contributes to foundation failure.
Damaged or Missing Gutters
With no gutters or damaged gutters, water simply falls straight down from the roof to your foundation walls. The pounding of water and pooling can cause hydrostatic pressure, and condensation inside the building.