What caused the damage to Aaron Spiller's home in Atascadero?

A fallen oak tree and storm debris dammed Graves Creek, diverting water and causing severe erosion that threatened the home's foundation.

Why is Aaron Spiller suing the city of Atascadero?

Spiller alleges the city failed to properly maintain Graves Creek, leading to the damage and eventual loss of his property after the 2023 storms.

When did the Atascadero homeowner's lawsuit trial begin?

The trial began on Wednesday at the Paso Robles branch of San Luis Obispo Superior Court, over two years after the initial storm damage.

Home / Crime and Justice / Homeowner Sues City Over Flood Damage

Homeowner Sues City Over Flood Damage

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Homeowner's lawsuit over 2023 storm damage trial begins.
Family evacuated after creek erosion threatened home foundation.
Homeowner lost property due to erosion, now seeks damages.

A homeowner's legal battle against the city of Atascadero over catastrophic storm damage from 2023 has reached the trial stage. Aaron Spiller filed suit after his family was forced to evacuate their home due to severe erosion along Graves Creek. Heavy rains and debris caused the creek to divert, significantly undermining the property's foundation.

The city maintains it lacked sufficient notice of the hazard, while Spiller's legal team argues the city neglected its duty to maintain the creek, especially after an emergency proclamation warned of potential dangers. The homeowner has not been able to return to the property since March 2023 and has since foreclosed on it.

The trial centers on the city's alleged failure to act on warnings and Spiller's claims for emotional distress and the loss of his home. The outcome will determine liability for the extensive damages, estimated to be close to $900,000 for repairs, far exceeding the property's value.