BK-04Check for hidden pipes and cables before you drillCables and pipes can run almost anywhere in a wall, not just the usual safe zones, so use a detector - then still assume something's there until you've proved otherwise. Cheap detectors can miss cables that are deep, in metal conduit, behind metal-backed board, or give a confused reading in a metal stud frame. Before you drill, find your stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink) and check it turns freely, so you can shut the water off fast if you hit a pipe. If you have any doubt at all, isolate the circuit at the consumer unit before drilling, and turn the water off at the stopcock before cutting into anything that could carry water.