Next time they do damage less than $5000 (this threshold varies by location, so whatever it is), take them to small claims. It costs almost nothing to file and attorneys generally aren't allowed. If it's a bunch of retired folks someone will have the time to go down there. Even if you lose it will cost them a lot more than the damage.
You'll have to prove you tried contacting them normally and they ghosted you, so have a few emails or certified mail receipts.