Concrete foundation footings can be found exposed when the drainage around the structure or the gutters are clogged allowing water to penetrate the foundation washing dirt away from the footings. After a period of time the footings become weak resulting in cracked and settling foundation and interior/exterior walls. Ultra Sound Home Inspections recommends keeping the gutters clean and installing gutter screens when needed. The ground slope around the perimeter of the structure should also slope at a rate of 1/2″ per 6 feet to allow proper drainage away from the foundation walls. 

Nashville TN_Exposed Footings