Also if they are requesting modification they do this at his expense.

Once you have those, ask the GC if his drafter can add the modifications to those as-builts necessary for permit. 

I know you'll be getting more properties, so that would necessitate more checking accounts.

I went 5 years without paying and have recently started a mortgage modification program with the bank.

The only other thing is that they cannot help with cosmetic things- kitchen upgrades, removing walls, that sort of thing; so if you want to make modifications/changes you will need to get with someone who knows how to detail that out.

A crawl space or basement allows flexibility with plumbing modifications.

Many will offer streamlined modifications likely to help clean up the mess for people who can still pay their mortgage.

That would be my goal.The owners have a recent loan modification on the primary lien claiming hardship, but not sure that would matter if I own the secondary?

Then put drywall over it and fire caulk the edges, bam 1hr rating without a massive structural modification.

Modification can be enforced at eviction.