However, you can count on being dragged into court by virtue of the fact that as a landlord you are presumed to have deep pockets...So, you need to cover your assets with proper insurance, reasonable rules and consistent enforcement.

I tell the propspective clients I counsel in my office--- pay me a couple thousand now, or a couple hundred thousand later.Also remember, that the majority of the states observe the "Statute of Frauds" this means that in order for any agreement surrounding the disposition of real property to be valid and enforceable, it must be in writing and signed by all parties.....Sorry about the lecture... but I see way too many people make big problems by not spending the intial money and time to fully protect themself, their property, their family, and their friendship!!!

Rent Enforcement and Recoveries appears to be his latest scam company: http://www.nycompaniesindex.com/rent-enforcement-recoveries-llc-2g1jj/

Start sending 5 day notices and enforce late fees.

If appropriate, call the building department; the health department, code enforcement; nuisance board, etc, etc, etc.

Now, these aren't code inspectors, they're from the NJ Dept of Consumer Affairs, but they enforce stuff like emergency lighting, painting fire escapes, and other safety issues, so I don't see how they could not be trained to spot combustion in a bedroom if that was a violation.

I understand it accrues 8% interest as well, but I don't know how to enforce that.If that fails, I'll just move on with life and maybe if he needs to clean up his life w/in the next 20 years, he might try and make good on the judgement.

So you could ask your local SEC enforcement agency for more information.3.

Double closings and other methods that hide the behind the scenes dealings are what make it all questionable, and why enforcement of licensing happens. 

While these are not legal and can't be enforced any longer, you'll still find the restriction written right on the deed every time the property is purchased or sold.Basically, as long as you're not breaking any laws by doing so, you can restrict the use of a piece of land any way you want with a deed restriction.