Yes it might seem like the tenant caused it by accident, but unless there is video of the tenant throwing out the cigarette, and then the fire starting, you can't really prove it.

I discovered this forum by accident and glad to find lot of information and helpful community.

I was glad to see him leave because he was an accident waiting to happen. 

Accidents happen 

What I call "an emergency" is something along the lines of a family member/close friend who was just in a serious auto accident and is undergoing life saving surgery.

I would say I  already completed a deal but it was more of a happy accident, I purchased my condo as a short sale several years ago and as of last year it is appraised at triple what I paid for it.

Just keep building your business, do deals, and you run into the good ones by accident. 

Currently a single family home (pictures online look horrific), but approved for condo What steps should I take before calling the owner?

Things break, accidents happen regardless if it's 10 days or 10 months into a rental.

The 401k protection you mentioned applies if you were in a car accident, for example, and someone wanted to pursue your assets.