PL-03Check for cables and pipes before you drillCables and pipes can run almost anywhere in a wall, not just in the usual safe zones, so use a detector before every hole — then still treat the wall as if something is there, since detectors miss deep cables, metal conduit and anything behind metal-backed plasterboard. Before drilling, find your stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink) and check it turns freely, so you can shut off the water fast if you hit a pipe. If you have any doubt at all, isolate the relevant circuit at the consumer unit before drilling, and turn off the water at the stopcock before cutting into anything that could carry water.