Cracks in exterior and foundation walls can be a huge and costly problem. They can be a result of any number of conditions, such as on going settlement, soil conditions, undersized footings, added weight and the list goes on and on. Whatever the reason, foundation cracks can be a fortune to repair. At a home inspection done not too long ago, several serious cracks were found in the foundation walls as well as the interior walls, and the basement showed more problems.
The picture above shows a clean crack, indicating that it recently occurred. At times cracks like this gets wider towards the bottom of the wall. It's important when foundation cracks are found on the exterior, that the opposite side is inspected to determine how serious it is. If you notice the picture below it's serious.
Again the cracks in these pictures are clean, no dirt and the edges are sharp. These cracks were a recent occurrence and is getting worse. 
What you see to the left is a through crack, you can't tell in the picture, but day light is coming through. This will bring in moisture and insects, creating a whole new set of problems.
The basement had five temporary jacks installed in different areas. This means some of the post that was originally there was removed and the floor above was sinking.
Further investigation showed cracks over an entry way on the first level, as well as a noticeable slope in the dining room floor.
The problem with this house is an upper level was added. The footing is not able to handle the added weight, as a result cracks are forming throughout the interior and exterior walls, and the added level and main level are on the verge of collapse. How the contractor got away with this is beyond me. How he/she can sleep at night is a better question. This will be a fortune to repair. The poor owners may never sell this horror house.
Before hiring a contractor in any trade, do your homework not only on the contractor, but on the work involved. Make sure they're reputable and can be found if you have questions or concerns.
If you're buying a house, get a home inspection. Imagine getting stuck with this money pit!
Eric Middleton, owner of Closer Look Property Inspections Inc.
www.abrooklynhomeinspector.com
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