They didn't pause at all when the City of Chicago slapped us with a 10 day cut off notice if we didn't come up with $25k to pay the water bill.

I have 2 weeks for completing inspection, and would appreciate guidance on areas to watch out for.I already noticed that the floor is creaking in a couple of rooms, there is no insulation, and there might be lead paint.

While searching through these post, I have noticed that the majority of the threads are about the Atl and surrounding areas.

If you behave like this to your tenants do not be shocked when they treat your property poorly, leave with giving you the absolute minimum notice, and for the most part make your job as a landlord much more difficult.  

I served the notice to quit and I called her multiple times and left messages.

@Derek LacyI noticed your response on the other thread and found this interesting posting you made.So how do you protect yourself from the statue of repose in California?

Plan a trip out to see your properties, and two days before you arrive, inform your PM to post 48hour notice (or whatever your state requirement is) arrive with invoices in hand and confirm the repairs.  

But an eviction can never be filed unless the "Notice to Quit" is sent. 

I also noticed that they had pets that seemed to be malnourished and their kids had scratches on their faces. 

Give notice of entry to do repairs in the manner allowed for by lease and state laws.