I have found a fair amount of very small black bugs, oval-shaped, but with a head that is noticeably separate.

Question:At first I thought they were baby roaches, but then upon closer investigation, the color is pure black, more narrow than oval, with a head that is noticeably separate, (segmented?) from the body. The back has a shell that overlaps the body. The Feelers are small, but noticeable. What the hell are these? Anyone know? They certainly don't like baby roaches. they seem to be mini beetles of some sort??

Answers:
They are ticks.

Go here
http://www.pestproductsonline.com/1_ocas...

There are several kinds and depending on where you live their colors are different. Here in the south they are black, just like what you described, out West they are brown with black spots.

Get tick spray at the hardware store, if you're renting tell your land lord, if you get no response from them, threaten to call the health department.

Good Luck!