But there is no way to avoid it - the tenant complained to the building department, and the building department says we MUST install an owner's meter, rather than simply changing the bulb over to a motion detector battery operated light.

You haven't witnessed this person smoke inside, so why not find a reason to go over there (maybe to change the smoke detectors/batteries) and check if the whole home reeks of smoke.

The City fire marshal has an annual inspection where we load new batteries in the CO/Smoke detectors and replace the fire extinguishers.  

Aside from the fact that HML's charge points and higher interest rates, the biggest difference is that they are licensed and as such, can charge rates in excess of state usury laws.

Used batteries and used motor oil are contaminants in CA and require special disposal fees.

To be certified they had to pass a battery of tests and have a code of ethics to follow.Paul

Do you use a hardwired or battery doorbell?

Otherwise, you can give notice to do an inspection (check batteries in smoke detectors, change the furnace filter), but their personal life is their problem.

Replacing batteries is a big cost.

Well, it turns out he had a huge rap sheet including harboring a fugitive, battery with a weapon, drugs, ect ect.