I was able to fund a complete bathroom renovation, brand new plumbing, new flooring throughout, new drywall & insulation, and upgrades to the kitchen, but I struggled to find consistent contractors to finish the house.

One of the BP members mentioned creating an LLC and PO Box to preserve anonymity - that's a good idea too in that it insulates you from any unwanted visitors. 

So the poor roof work would not be covered, but the resultant insulation and drywall work would be covered. what may be covered is turning in a 1st party property claim.

I personally feel that it is worth it to further insulate me from liability.

Roofing, foundation, major sheetrock replacement, insulation, and general remodel need a permit.Most handymen type of people are NOT licensed with the city as contractors.

Of course, all markets fluctuate in the short term as well, and it is a matter of hedging and insulating yourself from these short term fluctuations to get to the long term profits.

For example, if you remove say the plaster walls and want to put sheetrock the city might have you insulate all the exterior walls.

What about bringing all electrical, plumbing and insulation/energy up to code?

Each rental shop will be 1,200 square feet, insulated, have one water spigot, and minor electrical.

Also know that a property manager won't insulate you from these tenants.