Stair-step cracks are a symptom of foundation movement. While they can be purely cosmetic, they are often the first visible warning sign of underlying soil issues.
Unlike a vertical or horizontal crack, a stair-step crack follows the mortar joints between bricks. It typically starts near the corner of a window or door and moves diagonally up or down in a zig-zag pattern. stair step brick cracks
If your home is newer, minor settling is expected. If the crack is thin (less than 1/8 inch wide) and hasn't changed in years, it may simply be cosmetic. Stair-step cracks are a symptom of foundation movement
Here is what every homeowner needs to know about identifying, diagnosing, and fixing stair-step cracks in brickwork. and fixing stair-step cracks in brickwork.