We deliver our properties free of both (noted as such in the lease) and then contractually make the tenant liable for prevention/termination. 

In other words, I already have a checking and savings with BoA, but I would create a 2nd savings account (within my regular account) and put all the rental properties last months and security into that account (combined).Is this the correct way to prevent co-mingling of funds, or what would you recommend?

If it turns out that the tenant clogged the drain, we give them one warning and after that we charge them.

Send me a message if you would like a copy of our7 CRITICAL STEPS TO PREVENT A TENANT NIGHTMARE BEFORE HANDING OVER THE KEYS

If the plumber has to work 2 extra hours because of foolish clogs, oh well. 

@Will Reed I had roots in sewer and cut them annually as they eventually clogged the line.

We used to provide washer and dryer, but tenants washed greasy, oily work clothes leaving the washer unusable until cleaned, or clogged the pump requiring disassembly to remove obstruction.  

Is that process too complicated, yes, but there is nothing in this decision that will prevent a tax sale purchaser in MD from reselling at a profit after obtaining the property by foreclosing the right of redemption.

The best thing you can do to prevent future foundation issues is installing gutters around the property to repel away from the foundation.

Quote from @Fernando Martin-Gullans: Hey y’all, I’m a retail investor with 2 SFH rentals worth a combined ~$650k looking to utilize some of my stored equity to buy more out-of-state properties, but I’m not quite sure how best to proceed given that my interest rates are incredibly low (leaning me away from refinancing) and neither property is owner-occupied (which I believe prevents me from using a HELOC).