We've ingored "the 70% rule" from day one (over 15 years now).

Asking in the correct forum will get a better response.Read the RULES!

It was so easy the first couple times I didn’t think I’d need to.

However as Texas only allows a HELOC on your Primary Residence, I don’t want to lose this facility if I move to a new place (and I want to comply with the rules!).

.- Most contractors will cut corners, or worse, once they figure out they won't be watched closely:( Your job will also go to the bottom of their priority list.Monitoring progress is relatively easy: hire that same inspector to go by weekly or before any payments to take a VIDEO of:1) What was done2) Quality of workmanshipOne other thing you didn't ask about, payments to contractors.- They all want 50% down or as much as they can squeeze out of you. 

If not again you would be better off buying your own home and having enough yard/space for all of them but 13 is still way to many dogs unless you live on a farm or own acres of land.I have worked in the banking business and have seen people lose their homes that they rent due to landlords kicking them out with very little warning due to breach of contract or a No pet rule. 

The rules are the same for everyone.

I wish it were that easy.

The ruling was appealed. 

Yes, because Private Money infers that you are in a negotiable deal where your project can be outside the box and you can negotiate unique terms with a private individual - that - or a big box lender with strict rules and guidelines.