Sue them in the small claim court now

If you sue them now, you will win the case most likely. Once you find where the husband works, you should be able to recovery your loss. Because you have a case against them, I don't think they will damage your property intentionally for they have to pay for it if you win. In fact I think suing them now will prevent them to damage your property more. 

This is how I do it every time.

Good Luck!