Short answer
Record the whole wall, the specific change, nearby property and recent conditions. Keep people away where movement could have serious consequences and seek suitably qualified help.
Movement signs
- Leaning or rotation away from the retained ground.
- Bulging or bowing between posts or along the face.
- Steps, separation or displaced units that are increasing.
- Cracks that widen, recur or align with ground movement.
Material and ground signs
- Decayed timber, corrosion, split components or failed connections.
- Scour, soil piping, sinkholes or loss of backfill.
- Paving, fences, services or nearby structures moving with the wall.
- Persistent seepage, blocked outlets or water emerging through new paths.
Make the record useful
Take repeat photos from the same fixed points, include a safe scale reference, record dates and rainfall or adjacent works, and note dimensions without entering an unsafe zone. Share the record with the person assessing the property.
Keep clear of a potentially unstable area
Do not stand below, excavate beside or add load above a wall that appears to be moving. Use appropriate emergency or professional help where consequences could be serious.