In my experience going after someone in the courts who is already trying to not be forthcoming with information typically results in more wasted time/energy/money on your end.

It's kind of like a a guy who gets really excited about something touch really really fast and you can't understand a word he says sometimes you have to slow it down  I've also found that I'm not saying he is but I've also found that in my life I'm 61 years old a lot of hucksters do the same thing  because they know if you show energy and excitement in a presentation more people will sign up then if you're dry as a bone

We haven't seem an economic down turn in quite while.

Likewise, major alterations and change of use would require the structure to meet the new HERS (Home Energy Rating System) score.

economic or otherwise?

. - along with inconsistent incomeTo be honest this person should not be investing in real estate and focus their time and energy on getting a stable w2 or income and get their credit cleaned up first

You have no real control over macro economic issues over the long term, which will have a higher level of impact on your building value.  

Personally I'd probably just put my energy into fixing the issue and getting it rented.

It sounds like you already have a great foundation with your rental and BRRR experience in the UK, and you'll find many similarities in the US market but also a few key differences.For location, I’d suggest looking into markets with strong population growth, economic stability, and landlord-friendly regulations.

Census data highlight population and economic trends.