I understand this is not a requirement, but I have never received a damaged unit from an inherited tenant or any legal issues.

Ordinarily those tenant vacated damages would be too remote, but it sounds like they were contemplated by both parties at the time of contract.Were I in this situation I would be looking to state law to determine if the EMD is truly the extent of my potential liability as a buyer. 

b) How do they (Cali Govt) deal with the damage, both in terms of who gets the blame and also where do they get the money?

As a would be individual landlord with just a one unit single family property I don’t know I can stomach the risk or withstand a financial assault resulting from an eviction process for a non-paying tenant (or tenants that do extensive damage).I am seriously considering bowing out and selling.

Umbrella Policies are good, but they are not an asset protection tool, they only cover litigation/damages after you’re already in litigation or found personally liable.

That one is a big deal for rebuilding.I've also heard of property tax reductions for properties significantly damaged during the storm.Depending on the property and what you want to do, the hurricanes affected property tax, insurance, and permitting in a lot of ways.

Sellers may struggle to mentally shift from "owner" to "tenant," which can create challenges with boundaries and property care.Security Deposit:If you’re doing a temporary leaseback, be sure to collect a substantial security deposit to cover potential damages and ensure they vacate on time.

what is damage protection insurance? 

I appreciate it.Aside from the option to be added as 'additional insured' they have the option to purchase a  "ProtectionPlus Bundle' from Surevestor, which includes several things like protection against eviction costs, wilful damage to property, over a $1 Million third party liability protection, loss of rent protection for 25 weeks etc.This is $50/month.

Follow the step for the deposit-even if it is to send a registered letter to their last known address stating that the deposit was used for outstanding rent and whatever damages or cleaning was needed (itemize it).