But vermin represent a health hazard and the onus is always on you, the landlord, to provide a safe environment.

I've never been licensed in health and life, and none of the below is advice, but a slice of my experience.

But apparently this week, enraged that the heat was only at 66 and wasn't climbing to 68 fast enough for her and her baby, she called the Department of Health in our county to lodge an official complaint.

IMO give them a deadline and then have atty write letter with threat of legal action by x date if not paid.

Like I've said before, who wants to work with someone that goes out in public and threatens litigation, or likes to use the threat of litigation as a scare tactic. 

Examples of  health care workers  etc if  that  is  your   demographic. 

However, it's important to keep in mind that certain debts, such as health or tuition bills, may not necessarily be a red flag.

Also, as an independent contractor you will have no benefits, e.g. health plan, retirement plan, unemployment, etc. 

The Parish health department was the arbiter of the rules and had to sign off on everything.

I absolutely understand your view on this completely.I do background checks for my Health, Life & Annuities licenses.