I know PA has a reputation for playing it “fast and loose.”

You'll quickly get a bad reputation. 

Having that reputation will not benefit you with the city.  

I know I have a lot of work ahead but very excited.I'm currently identifying where I'll hang my license and looking for a strong, reputable team to join - one I can proudly point to as a source of support while I work hard to contribute.

That way there would not be long term work for someone to manage it and several folks to have their hands out wanting the rental income, and fights about how often a plumber was called out to a house, etc. 

To be honest I would call a plumber. 

It's a common ask when looking at this type of buildings and a reputable seller who ran the building well should have it.

I would start getting your plumber in there to start setting up for the gas switch.

In January, I had a reputable plumber come out and snake the main drain line because a toilet was overflowing shower water.

The risks are no different -- if you get a reputation, a bad one at that, it could cost you financially.