In an era of booming new construction, projects located immediately adjacent to occupied Philadelphia row homes are numerous throughout the city. But with such growth comes great risk to these adjoining structures and the families living within. Damages to the neighboring family structure often include the loss of quiet enjoyment of the premises, forced evacuation, disruption, diminution of the home's market value, damage to the property's party walls and subsequent interior damage to the property, including microbial growth. The role of the construction attorney in this instance is to attempt to minimize the damage, effectively assert all relevant causes of action, and ensure that any applicable insurance policies are triggered.  Careless or negligent excavation practices have long been the main culprits in these cases, which are disastrous for both the contractor and neighboring family.