LP-04Check for cables and pipes before you drillCables and pipes can run almost anywhere behind a wall, including up from sockets near skirting height, so sweep the area with a cable and pipe detector before drilling. Detectors miss things too, especially deep cables or ones in metal conduit, so still treat the wall as live until you've drilled a little and checked. Find your stopcock, usually under the kitchen sink, and check it turns freely, and if you're at all unsure, turn off the relevant circuit at the consumer unit before drilling near a socket or light switch.