Settlement in a structure refers to the distortion or disruption of parts of a building due to * unequal compression of its foundations; * shrinkage, such as that which occurs in timber-framed buildings as the frame adjusts its moisture content; or * undue loads being applied to the building after its initial construction. Settlement should not be confused with subsidence which results from the load-bearing ground upon which a building sits reducing in level, for instance in areas of mine workings where shafts collapse underground.