Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag file lawsuit against LA city and DWP over fire damage

Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag, along with other property owners, sue LA city and DWP over the Palisades fire damage.

Spencer Pratt, Heidi Montag, and 20+ Pacific Palisades property owners sue LA city and DWP over Palisades fire.

The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, claims the city's inoperative water supply contributed to the destruction of their homes and properties.

The plaintiffs argue that the Santa Ynez Reservoir, which is crucial for firefighting efforts in the Palisades area, was offline and empty when the fire broke out on January 7. Reports indicate that the reservoir had been under repair since early 2024, and despite urgent requests, repairs won’t be completed until mid-2025. The lawsuit suggests that the lack of water pressure from the drained reservoir hindered firefighting efforts, allowing the blaze to spread rapidly.

The Pratts, who lost their home in the fire, have joined other victims in holding the city and DWP accountable for what they see as a "cost-saving" decision to leave the reservoir dry. They claim that the design and management of the water supply system were inadequate for combating an urban fire, contributing to widespread destruction.

The lawsuit seeks compensation for property damage, lost income, living expenses, and legal costs. The plaintiffs argue that the city's failure to provide adequate water supply constitutes a “taking” of their property without proper compensation.