Essentially Local July-August 2017

Home Services
Asbestos in the home
Until its ban in 1999, the building
industry used asbestos for a variety of
purposes -fireproofing, insulation and
roofing. Its ban came about because
of the harmful fibres that are released
when it is damaged. Without damage
it is safe but fibres released pose
a risk of lung cancer, asbestosis or
mesothelioma.
Asbestos is found in everyday
items like artex, floor tiles, rainwater
pipes and garage roofs. Simple
home improvements or accidents
can damage it – a burst water pipe
could attack the coating on your artex
releasing fibres.
Home insurance only covers
removal of asbestos as part of a
damage claim, rather than removal
when identified. Asbestos in good
condition should be monitored for
damage and repaired or isolated if
damaged. Removal, however is the
only permanent solution. A specialist
will normally locate your asbestos
and take samples for analysis at an
approved laboratory. Asbestos should
only ever be handled by a competent
professional who complies with
current Health and Safety legislation.
Any concerns call Paul on 01604 240507 or 07738 786572 • www.uk-asbestos.co.uk
Reduce your risk
Electrical faults are a common cause of domestic fire and
while rewiring isn’t cheap it could cost you less in the long run.
You should rewire or upgrade your electrics every
25-30 years to bring them in line with current standards.
Damaged, worn and out-of-date wiring and sockets as well
as overuse of extension leads can cause overloading and
risk of fire.
Tell-tale signs suggesting a rewire include fuses blowing
and sockets overheating or not working. Evidence of
vermin like rats or mice is also an indicator. A rewire should
include new cables, sockets and fuse box. If you haven’t
had a rewire since 1984 your electrician may also need to
install an earth cable to prevent risk of an electric shock.
Under current building regulations home owners should
have their electrical installations tested every 10 years and
landlords every 5 years.
Get in touch Gary Lince 07973 666 436
www.inspec-electrical-contractors.co.uk
info@inspec-electrical-contractors.co.uk
Those annoying
little drips…
If you notice water dripping from your tap spout the washer
or ceramic disc/cartridge may be damaged and need
replacing. Water leaks around the diverter leaver on your
shower mixer tap or around the base of the swivel spout or
around the spindle of your sink tap are likely to be caused
by a faulty gland. Wear and tear, back pressure or lack of
grease may be the cause.
Before carrying out any work on your taps always turn
off the water supply at the stop cock or the isolating valve
for the relevant tap. Once turned off, turn on your taps to
empty the water in the system, then put the plug in the sink
hole to prevent anything falling down the wastepipe.
If you don’t know what you are doing or don’t have the
right tools you could cause further damage and it may be
cheaper to call a plumber.
From leaks to new toilets, bathrooms, kitchens or
central heating issues you can get your problem
sorted by calling local plumber. See page 34 for some
great local plumbers.
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