So this is the sum and substance of this situation.

I read so much but most of the books gloss over the subject and are more of motivational books than substance.

The tenant allows a violation of MN Stat. 504B.171 Subdivision 1 (allowing controlled substances, prostitution, unlawful use/possession of firearm, stolen property on the premises).The tenant has materially violated the lease, other than nonpayment of rent.

For purposes of this Paragraph an environmental defect is a234 toxic or hazardous substance at a level and condition found above those set as acceptable by235 the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Illinois Environmental Protection236 Agency, the Illinois EmergencyManagement Agency or applicable local governmental237 agency.

He says, "I noticed a suspicious plastic bag with white substance on the sidewalk.

But with the answers I have received from those services that I investigated, I would never know if it was worth it or not, based upon the lack of substance that was presented to me upon initial contact.I also found that many of the people singing the praises of particular coaching services tend to be the ones working for them, which to me lessens credibility IMHO. 

I pulled this list from Oaklands Rent Adjustment Program page.The following are subject  to exemptions from Rent Control.Subsidized Housing.Motels, hotels if occupancy not more than 30 days.Hospital, dormitory, extended care facility, etc.Non-profit cooperative owned and occupied by majority of residents.New construction (built after January 1st, 1983)Substantial rehabilitation.3 units or less owner occupied properties.The unit that an owner occupies in any building.Non-profit facility-homeless/substance abuse treatment.Unit in trust for the developmentally disabled.Shared facilities with owner and tenants (bath/kitchen).Costa Hawkins-Single family home or condominium.Vacant unitsLink: https://www.oaklandca.gov/reso...The most notable is the houses built after Jan 1, 1983 exemption. 

Ignoring the internal revenue code, the judge-made-law substance-over-form doctrine and sham-transaction doctrine might also stand in your way.But FWIW, you'll only have to "logic" your way out of it if you're examined or audited. 

In such cases, the local fire marshalls may have authority. some jurisidictions require tanks to be cleaned out and filled with sand or other inert substance. some require sampling. you can check with the local fire marshall without identifying the house.Again, you should find out why the tank is not used. if its because the seller no longer occupies the house, then the tank may still be able to be used. sometimes, owners decide to put a tank in the basement. you should find out if it is truly an abandoned tank or just temporarily inactive because the seller is not using the house....  

Honestly, I find a lot of those guys to be more like flashy click-bait than actual substance.