We also require that we be added to the contractor's insurance as Additionally Insured, so we're covered if they cause damage or liability issue.3) If the property is occupied:- One of our people MUST accompany their person (and we charge for this). --- We were sued many years ago, along with the owner, because tenant claimed owner's contractor sexually assaulted them!

They cover the entire renovation expense.  

You may find this a viable option with rates where they are, especially if your rental income continues to cover the mortgage.Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): If your property qualifies, you could use a HELOC to access the equity without disturbing the current mortgage.

Assuming you don't have a mortgage that requires a certain level of insurance, you can get a stop-loss policy covering all the properties. 

Another note on construction cost, going vertical is very expensive now and would require have a great connect with a developer and a builder in the area.See what rents are in the area and run the numbers to ensure the rents will cover your costs and give you a solid return—using the 1% rule can help.

If so, that should be covered.

It's a balance of cashflow and wealth accumulation.One of the goals is to have tenants pay as much of your cost-of-ownership as possible (loans, taxes, insurance, etc.)In high-cost areas, any Class A or B property you buy will usually negative cashflow for the first 3-5 years, until rents rise enough to cover the negative cashflow + rising taxes & insurance.Investing OOS increases your risks because you may not know the market and you can't check on everything/everyone all the time.If you move forward with your buddies, HIGHLY recommend creating a solid Partnership Agreement!

Need a few units in same buildings and higher rents to cover expenses aka nice areas. 

When they create costs they have to cover those costs.

I'll go with @Greg Scott line set metal cover idea and @Chris Seveney idea for painting the copper white.Thanks folks!