PI#58 - Homeowner's guide to recognizing and reducing landslide damage on their property
Ground crack.
Ground crack.

Features that might indicate landslide movement are:

Springs, seeps, or saturated ground in previously dry areas.

Cracks in snow, ice, soil, or rock.

Soil pulling away from foundations.

Damaged sidewalk, Sunset Drive landslide, spring 98.
Damaged sidewalk.

Offset fence lines.

Unusual bulges or elevation changes in the ground, pavements, or sidewalks.

Decks and patios tilting and/or moving relative to the main house.

Tilting telephone poles, trees, retaining walls, or fences.

Foundation damage.
Foundation damage.

Excessive tilting or cracking of concrete floors and foundations.

Broken water lines and other underground utilities.

Rapid increase or decrease in stream water levels, possibly accompanied by increased turbidity (soil content).

Door frame out of plumb.
Door frame out of plumb.

Sticking doors and windows, and visible open spaces indicating walls and frames out of plumb.

Appearance of bare spots on slopes.

Intermittent creaking, snapping, or popping noises from a house.

Sunken or downdropped roads.

 

.

Introduction

Three common types of Utah landslides

Why landslides commonly occur

Areas generally prone to landslides

Features indicating landslide movement

How you can reduce the likelihood of landslide

What to do if you suspect imminent landslide danger

For further information on landslides in your area

References

Dept of Natural Resources Dept of Natural Resources