Landslide In HOA Community In California Caused By Rain

Massive rains from winter storms may be to blame for the landslide in an HOA community in California. The homeowners association in question continues its investigation, with a possibility for legal action in the future.

Investigations Reveal Cause of Landslide in HOA

In the wake of a devastating landslide that obliterated a dozen homes and prompted mass evacuations in Rolling Hills Estates, a new report on Friday attributes the destruction to excessive rainfall.

Peartree Lane on the Palos Verdes Peninsula experienced a dramatic shift of over 40 feet in July, destroying or severely damaging at least 12 residences. Forced evacuations followed, along with the red-tagging of homes and continuous monitoring for signs of further movement.

The initial mystery surrounding the landslide’s cause led to parallel investigations by city and county officials and the homeowners association. City officials, noting a fissure among the homes, began suspecting the involvement of heavy rains from the historic winter storms.

Four months later, the displaced residents face both emotional and stress from navigating insurance claims.

Report Findings Raise Questions

On Friday, the city divulged findings from its preliminary analysis conducted by GeoKinetics, an environmental and geotechnical firm in Irvine.

“The primary factor that caused the ‘Peartree Lane Slope Failure’ was the unusually heavy rainfall that occurred during the winter of 2022-2023,” a portion of the report states.

The report also suggested that hillside vegetation changes and prior slope failures might have contributed to the disaster.

However, some community members remain skeptical. Attorney Steven Bum, representing many displaced residents, questioned the report. Bum believes other causes may exist, such as storm drain deficiencies and other human-related factors.

“The city’s claim that heavy rainfall caused the landslide sounds like a self-serving act of God defense,” he said. “The homeowners deserve better. They have lost their homes and nearly all of their possessions. They deserve an objective investigation.”

Legal Action Possible

The repair costs for the ravaged homes run into millions, with potential aid from FEMA offering some relief. Homeowners also seek financial help from the local government. In July, insurance expert Janet Ruiz cautioned that standard insurance and standalone earthquake insurance might not cover landslide damages.

The homeowners association’s geological investigation remains ongoing. Legal action is a possibility in the future.