Living in a Philadelphia row home often means sharing walls and foundations with neighboring properties. When construction next door is poorly planned or improperly executed, it can cause serious damage to your home. Common issues include cracked walls, shifting foundations, and structural instability.
If your row home has been damaged by construction on an adjacent property, taking quick and documented action is critical. The steps below explain how to protect your property and your legal rights.
Step 1: Assess and Document the Damage
As soon as you notice damage, begin documenting it.
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Inspect walls, ceilings, floors, and the foundation for cracks, movement, or separation.
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Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas.
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Record when the neighboring construction began and what work was being performed.
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Continue documenting if the damage worsens over time.
This documentation may become key evidence later.
Step 2: Notify Your Insurance Company and Neighboring Parties
Next, notify the relevant parties.
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Report the damage to your homeowner’s insurance carrier.
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Inform the neighboring property owner and their contractor.
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Keep copies of emails, letters, and text messages.
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Avoid verbal-only communication when possible.
Written records help establish notice and responsibility.
Step 3: Obtain a Professional Evaluation
A professional assessment strengthens your position.
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Hire a licensed inspector or structural engineer.
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Request a written report explaining the cause and extent of the damage.
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Ask whether the damage is consistent with nearby construction activity.
These reports are often required for insurance claims and legal actions.
Step 4: Understand Your Legal Rights Under Pennsylvania Law
Row homes are especially vulnerable during adjacent construction due to shared party walls and connected foundations.
Under Pennsylvania law, property owners may seek compensation when damage is caused by negligent construction practices on neighboring properties. This can include failure to shore, underpin, or protect adjoining structures during excavation or renovation.
Liability depends on how the construction was performed and whether proper precautions were taken.
Step 5: Speak With a Philadelphia Property Damage Attorney
Construction damage cases are fact-specific and time-sensitive.
An experienced construction or property damage attorney can:
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Review engineering reports and construction records
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Determine who may be legally responsible
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Communicate with insurers and contractors on your behalf
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Pursue compensation through negotiation or litigation if needed
Early legal guidance can help prevent further damage and protect your claim.
Help for Row Home Damage Caused by Neighboring Construction
Dealing with damage to your home is stressful, especially when it is caused by someone else’s construction project. Philadelphia row homes present unique legal and structural challenges, and these cases require careful handling.
Freundlich & Littman represents property owners throughout Philadelphia and Pennsylvania in construction-related damage claims, including foundation damage and party wall issues.
For a free consultation, contact Freundlich & Littman at 215-545-8500 or email Info@FandLLaw.com.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. For advice about your specific situation, consult a qualified attorney.
