Hvac, Insinkerator, furnace, water heater, toilet, fiberglass tub, roof, driveway, etc...Here's a link: https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/EUL_FOR_CNA_E_TOOL.PDF You might also want to consider a home inspection for each unit with a written report, and a sewer cam report.Good Luck!

Of the 3 cities, I am leaning towards Charleston since it is bounded at least partially by water and wetlands which would prevent large-scale urban sprawl and increased supply of housing.

Yes for houses directly on the water (such as the bay) and in a flood-zone.

My team waiting at the water department for 5 hours to make sure we could get a resident into a home in short order. 8.

Keep all lavatories, sinks, toilets, disposals, pump systems, and all other water and plumbing apparatus in good order and repair and shall use same only for the purposes for which they were constructed.

Example $1300/m for rent + $50/m - water $50/m for gas/eletric

In these instances, you'd have to check things like flooring, plumbing for leaks, roof for leaks, hot water heater, and heating and air conditioning units. 

I’ll give the water company a call on Tuesday.

What happens when the water service line has to be replaced?

They will get a $100,000 liability to cover fires, water damage, accidents, and more.As @Greg Scott stated, you should require your tenant to add you as "additional insured" on their policy.