This thing is an off-market, 9720 ft2 mixed-use building that needs a lot of work (say, $300k purchase price and $200k reno, with 10k closing/legal/deed transfer costs). 

The Holton-Wise legal team managed to get the fine dropped a bit but I still had to pay it, plus legal fees.

A normal fence is usually required to back a few inches from the property line, if you had it surveyed and know exactly where that line is, then build it the required distance back, usually it's about 4", so give them the 4". let them challenge you, that's why i said a fast mason, have the wall built then fight them legally if they challenge, at that point it will be up. you have the proof of the property line, let them get there own survey to fight you.

I'm not asking for a legal opinion, but rather somebody who's been through the process before and their thoughts (and knows what to expect). 

do you have legal forms you make them sign?

If tenants rented the house part of that month (before the disaster), then I believe a prorated rent amount is legally due you.

You can always get some guidance from loopnet.

I know i can legally just enter if i want to with proper notice but i dont want to ruffle more feathers.

I really need guidance.

Is it legal to remove rotting food that might damage the property before the lease ends?