The owner kept current with the HOA payments but the tenant had erected an illegal shed.

If you put money up front require they have a surety bond for your job especially if it is big bucks, ask for liability and workers comp insurance certificates, check their license out, use a company that is registered at the Secretary of States office and check their standing, also Attorney generals office is making alot register for consumer protection these days.

Family, friends, coworkers, city workers, mailmen, garbage collectors, realtors, etc.

Their is a big demand for apartments cause their are lots of plant workers in area.

I mean if you actually did something that was illegal they would just take your plate #, which is a bit more official if they are calling the cops

@Yolanda Smith Private lenders are people YOU know - your family, friends, co-workers, and friends of friends at best.

They call me when there's a problem and I call handyman or other workers that I'm set up with.

I found it at my local grocery - but it is a miracle worker.

Do you believe them to be "illegal" or something?

Any other legal advice is ILLEGAL and may be very incorrect.Seeking advice from an attorney in the area where the property is located can be a wise and very economical decision considering the alternative.