For one, this isn't a criminal matter and so the police will not get involved. 

Do NOT fall for the ones who are overly "nice" and "eager" as they are generally Credit Criminals!  

It checks credit, criminal and evictions for $26.00 and then gives you a pass, fail or conditional with larger deposit.

I really don't get it (unless you criminal history prohibits licensing). 

(She happened to be hacked by the dumbest criminal ever and was able to recover her funds, but she was among a small minority of people who recover.)Do not make the EM check out to the seller.

Marijuana beyond your lease saying no smoking, is a banned substance so there is evidence of criminal actions. 

Ten years since first offense and he's now repeating both previous offenses just last year???? 

Additionally without permits you will hit a wall if you try to sell some day.Do not leave it to a lazy contractor, apply for the permits as the home owner.Any contractor that advises not to apply for proper permits is unscrupulous and verging on criminal in nature.

Despite the rental history, I know my friend wouldn't be one that buy and hold investors would jump through hoops to rent to: he's tattooed up, has a criminal record,  and no proof of income (likely no evictions though!

It is probably cheaper than joining the apartment association and they would have the means to qualify a new tenant (credit, criminal, rental history, income) and ensure that the tenants are signing a lease that follows the laws in CA.