Instead, shut off the water to the toilet and place a sign on the door "Art exhibit: Non-functioning bathroom."

It might be worth talking to a lawyer but not sure if it's small claims or worth it.Also, you might already have all of these things but for future prevention:- smart thermostat (so you receive alerts when the inside temperature dips below whatever preset you have)- Minut (or similar device) would also alert you to the inside (and outside) temperatures; for example, I have 2 devices inside the house and outside on the hot tub deck.

And as investors we should know this, but always anticipate higher costs and longer waits.EXAMPLE Breakdown of Costs:Plan Purchase: $1,500Permitting Fees: $2,500-7,500Site Preparation (grading, utilities, foundation): $20,000–$30,000ADUs require separate utility connections for water, electricity, and sewer but you can tap into existing utilities at the primary houseIn Raleigh you CANNOT split lots fee simple, so setting up completely separate utilities would not allow you to section off the ADU as of nowYour ADU must be on a permanent foundation (no wheels, no ability to move the structure)Construction (labor and materials): $100,000–$150,000Low-grade: $150–$180/sq ft averageMid-grade: $180–$220/sq ft averageHigh-end: $220–$250/sq ft averageLandscaping/Finishing Touches: $5,000Total Estimated Cost: $125,000–$200,000You could easily spend $200k+ with super end high finishes, custom designs, complicated sitework, adding a second story or more sqft, etc.

Think of all the horror stories about tenants maxing out the heat with their windows open during the winter, deliberately running water bills up, etc. 

Are you in a market where water lines could freeze in the winter if there’s no heat?

Implementing water-saving initiatives is a smart way to reduce utility costs.

But your main killers; road access, water access, fire hydrants, flood plain, storm sewers, Storm ponds, road surface requirements, etc. 

There are some “hot button” topics on BP which bring out “knee jerk” reactions and sometimes incorrect assumptions from some of us long time and frequent participants.  

The snake behind the water heater during rehab. 

In HI there are leasehold properties, cesspools, water catchment, and Lava Zones (on the Big Island).