Foundation Issue Help

[Michael Bingham]

Hi, everyone. I do have a rental but my probable foundation issue(s) are with my primary residence, which I had considered house hacking. I'm seeing more and more cracking around some windows and even in the brick/masonry. It looks like most of it was painted over and/or given a cosmetic "covering". I bought the house about a year ago and the only thing noted in the inspection report was the need for extended downspouts. My question is - Does anyone have any thoughts or wisdom about how to sue the previous seller to get them to pay for foundation repairs? I know that probably wouldn't work out and may not even be worth my time since it can be so hard to prove. I still need to consult an attorney to see what the laws are St. Louis City about foundation issue disclosures. I haven't asked neighbors yet or dug into any definite hiding this on the seller's part. And I'm looking into experts who can do inspections to tell me what the foundation issue is. But, I see signs they covered up foundation cracking (mostly with paint) and they marked "No" for any issues on the disclosures. I know there's so much gray area and a lot of variables, questions, etc., but I'm just looking for any insight. Honestly, I've been getting screwed with some big ticket issues (related to HOAs, selling different properties, continual unforeseen maintenance and costs) and this one really crushed me once I realized it was an actual issue. Like, I'm having a seriously tough time. The house was built in 1913, so I'd be very surprised if there were any new settling.