Seeing star bolt plates on your Philadelphia rowhome does not automatically mean the wall is unsafe — but it does not automatically mean it is safe either. The answer depends on when the bolts were installed, their current condition, and whether the wall continues to show signs of active movement.
A home with properly installed and still-performing star bolts has been deliberately stabilized. A well-installed system from even 20 to 30 years ago is often still fully functional when the plates and rods are not compromised by corrosion.
Signs that existing star bolts may need inspection: rust staining radiating from the plate edges into surrounding mortar; fresh cracking in the brick adjacent to the plates; a visible gap between the plate face and wall surface; or continued outward bowing despite the presence of bolts.
If you are buying a Philadelphia rowhome with star bolt plates and the inspection reveals any of the above signs, request a structural assessment before closing. NK Construction provides pre-purchase structural evaluations for buyers, real estate agents, and lenders.