I don't think you have many options to escalate with only a week timeline. 

I understand that the best way for me to avoid this type of drama in the future would be for the landlord to handle all lawn maintenance and upkeepWhat are my options?

I've been with an insurance company in CT, since I started my rental portfolio, but am looking for other options as it seems their rates have been going up and up. 

TurboTenant, you just shrank you the property options pool for your money making prospective tenant pool. 

Hello All,This is my first post on this forum although I have been listening to bigger pockets for years.

Some post here on the Bigger Pockets Marketplace.

My other option that i am considering is doing a new construction on a 4plex.

Your situation is probably better for seeking out "Non-QM Lenders" or potentially other "Creative Financing" options

We intend to give them the option of moving out or new contract (increased rent to match the market).

It depends on how much capital you have but I recommend either house hacking (3.5% - 5% down) a 2-4 unit property or you'll need 20-25% down for a non-owner occupant purchase which comes with higher rates.I would say house hacking is not an option for me, because I have a family with 2 kids (need good schools).