Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Brick exterior cracking

Our house in Central Arkansas is five years old with an all brick exterior. Two summers ago the brick on the South side of the house cracked from top to bottom. The crack is about 1/2 inch wide at the top but hairline at ground level. Last summer cracks developed around the corner on the west wall. None of those are more than about 1/8 inch so far. There are no cracks on the inside walls. The house is build on a slab and sets on a sloping lot. The west side cracks are slowing getting wider, but the south wall seems to have stabilized this year.
During heavier rains, I have seen water running around this corner several inches deep so I filled in that area to keep the runoff away from the house. My first thought was that the footers had moved, but with no inside damage I am not sure now. Any thought as to the cause? I would like to call a an engineer or architech, but want to get someone who will look for the true cause and not just represent a certain business. I don't know where to start with that.
Thanks for your help

Does the crack follow the grout or are brick broken? Did the newer crack form around the corner from the old one?

A crack that goes from nothing at the ground to 1/2" wide at the top suggests the possibility of a structural problem. It is not a shrinkage crack. The smaller corner cracks could be related, but the wide crack must be addressed.

I suggest you contact an engineer to get an opinion on the cost. A contractor may just try to sell you a job.

Dick

Probably 30-40% of the length of the crack is thru the brick. The newer cracks are not connected to the original one - there is 25 ft or more between them.

What type of engineer should I look for?

I would look for a structural engineer. Many experienced structural engineers have a good working knowledge of soils. If he sees a problem that could be caused by soil settlement/heaving, he can make a recommendation about someone else.

Dick

We'll do that. Thanks!