Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:**Understand Local Regulations:**First, you need to check with your local city or county to see if the zoning laws allow for this conversion.

In a cooling climate your state's laws probably state the calendar date upon which heat needs to be provided (for example beginning October 15th) and the temperatures that the unit is required to maintain (for example 65 degrees). 2.

The law will come down on you hard for that in other places as well.I would think about how much money it is to go lead free if you are buying a new property though.

If you found a replacement tenant that he found suitable and moved them in before you entered in any unpaid portion of your lease, I would expect you to receive a full refund of the security deposit.I would check with the state laws and see how much you can sue him for in small claims court.

Is there any state law that I can use? 

You are required by law to find a replacement tenant as quickly as possible and then refund any unused rent income.

I’m worried about liability, safety, and frankly, whether my personal belongings are at risk.I’m in Illinois (but not in Cook County or Chicago, where I know the laws are stricter).

The laws need to be changed.

I have the nolo press book, "California Landlord's Law Book: Rights and Responsibilities " but it doesn't address this specific  scenario.  

Ideally, looking for 'standard' contracting for the state that is aligned with local / municipal /state laws pertaining to tenant and landlord regulations.Thank you.