NO Crawl Space Access on pier & beam? How is foundation assessed?

[Connie Guinn]

I'm in my option period on the purchase of a small pier and beam home, but there's no outside access to the crawl space. The home is currently occupied by seller who claims there is also no inside access to the crawl space. Realtors have gone in to assist (elderly) seller with property relocation from closets in order to look for access, but found the closet floors are all carpeted.  The seller will not allow lifting of the carpet.

The home is showing some signs of foundation trouble, but without access to look beneath, how can an accurate assessment be made?  Anyone have any ideas or suggestions for a remedy?

Thanks!