Hoover v. Pierce County

The Hoovers instituted an inverse condemnation action against Pierce County, claiming that a county roadway diverted surface waters onto the Hoovers’ property. The trial court ordered a directed verdict against the County, and the jury determined damages. The County appeals, arguing that the trial court erred in granting a directed verdict for the Hoovers, and in denying its motion for a directed verdict. We hold that the Hoovers may not recover damages based on inverse condemnation by the County because any taking by the County occurred before they purchased the property. Accordingly, we…