[mithun]

A foundation supports the building and the loads that are within or on the building. The combination of footing and foundation distributes the load on the bearing surface and reduces settling to a minimum. There should be little or no cracking in the foundation and no water leaks if properly designed. The footing and foundation should be made of a material that will not fail in the presence of ground or surface water.

http://www.fao.org/docrep/s1250e/s1250e0h.htm