There are several reasons why a chimney might crack or tilt away from your home. Sometimes chimneys are constructed with inadequate structural support. More often, though, the supporting soils beneath your chimney are the culprit. Over time, the soil will compact, shrink, and/or erode (link to: what causes foundation problems) and may no longer be suitable to support your chimney’s weight. Note that if your chimney is becoming unstable due to soil conditions, the rest of your home is at risk as well.