Show the building context
Include the full affected wall base and nearby grade, paving and openings. A close-up alone can hide the relationship to the building.
Describe only what you know
Record the first observation and any prior work. Say whether metal is visible, material is falling away or a crack appears to have changed; do not label a cause without a supporting report.
Keep existing documents together
Engineer notes, inspection reports and old repair descriptions help prevent conflicting assumptions. Construction details may need to follow those documents.
Ask about the repair boundary
Find out who defines material removal, reinforcement work and any structural details. Surface appearance after patching is not evidence of foundation stability.
Photos help start the review. Access, concealed conditions and required professional review can change the construction scope.