It could be gas or electric.

I did hear water run through pipes behind the wall, and was worried about a leak as I have nothing running.

Mix of electric and natural gas for water heater/stoves.

" If I purchase a home, nobody should be able to come in to my home and tell me to do anything"Just change the requirement to inspecting your gas line before turning the gas on, what do you think about it now?

Hi Gary, if the pump failed on it's own I would pay the increased energy bill.I don't know where Your from but in Wisconsin the electric/gas bills have a "Degree Days" number on the back of the bill, this number would make it easy to figure the actual increase in fuel used for the month in question this year, and the same month last year, when the pump was working.

Steve, My knowledge of properties in NYC is very limited, but with what I do know and have observed personally (I used to tag along with my Uncle - he's a construction contractor) on buildings with age like you have throughout New York, it is very important to check for leaks, as well as foundational issues.

I would hate to pick out cabinets and have no one like them, or put the gas fireplace insert in and have someone hate it, but the curb appeal is what scares me the most.

It seems that electric is easier to use and potentially less dangerous (no open flames or leaks).

You might want to shop around on craigslist - my last one was closer to 3K, but could have been smaller size.Are you positive the water leak was from the toilet and not a frozen/leaky supply line?

Yes, turn the water off, but after you turn the water off, turn on a faucet to clear out the water already in the pipes.Also, when new tenants move in, I make sure to show them where the house's main shut off valve is in case there is ever a major leak.