I used to use the method for years as a Florida Private Banker for wealthier clients that were susceptible to law suits and could relatively easily pay off the line.

Irvington is very similar to newark, which has very strict laws with regard to rent increases. 

This will also help law enforcement and the FBI as the case builds...

For example in California there is a 10 year structural warranty by law (and shorter warranties for different systems).

Unfortunately, Texas has a law prohibiting HELOCs on rental properties and I believe they also have a 70-75% max total loans allowed on the property which cuts into the equity I've built and would only allow for me to access 30K which would make it less appealing to go through the process for only 30K.

See if it leaks into their unit.Depending on your local laws, even if it leaks, you may not be responsible.

However, it's nicer as you don't have to deal with lead certification laws that are all wonky and poorly enforced.

Keep the deposit towards additional rent if allowed by law and wish them the best of luck solving their problems. 

Your definition is correct for "legal non-conforming".The "legal" part of "non-conforming" is dropped when it doesn't apply so most commonly people call these units "non-conforming", "finished", "in-law suite/unit", or "bonus unit".Non-conforming: Any property that doesn't meet current zoning requirements.Legal non-conforming: A non-conforming property that was lawfully established under previous zoning regulations and is allowed to continue its use.Based on his posts @Mario Morales is referring to a non-conforming unit.

I'd try to understand landlord laws in each market - i.e. figure out which markets are more landlord friendly.