Renovating your home can be an exciting experience. Whether you are updating an old property or giving a space a modern touch, the thrill is undeniable. This year, nearly seven million homeowners in the UK plan to renovate, with each person spending an average of over £14,000 in the next two years.

However, as you take on this project, you must be aware of concealed dangers that can interfere with your plans. Safety issues and unexpected expenses can lead to significant delays and may even put your project at risk.

In this article, we will highlight six frequently overlooked risks that can arise during home renovations, especially in older UK homes. We strive to help you avoid these issues so your renovation stays on track and is completed safely.

Hidden Hazards to Watch for During Home Renovation

Here are the six hidden hazards to watch for when renovating your home:

• Asbestos in Older Homes

Asbestos is still present in many homes built before the year 2000, especially in ceiling panels, pipe lagging, and floor tiles. If you’re not sure what you’re dealing with, Advance Asbestos Removal (https://advanceasbestosremoval.co.uk/) can safely assess and remove it without putting your family or tradespeople at risk. The risk is that you cannot see asbestos without special equipment; people often overlook it until it’s too late.

Why It’s Dangerous:

Asbestos can be hazardous. When it is disturbed, it releases modest fibres into the air. People can breathe in these fibres, which can lead to serious illnesses like lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. These diseases may not appear for many years or even decades after exposure.

How to Manage It:

Get an asbestos assessment before starting any renovation projects, mainly in homes built before 2000. If you think asbestos might be present, do not disturb the materials. Wait for professionals to evaluate and remove them.

• Electrical Hazards from Hidden Wires and Faulty Connections

Renovations often require alterations to the electrical system. This could mean adding new light fixtures, rewiring a space, or even installing new outlets. However, numerous homeowners do not realise the dangers of electrical work, especially if the current wiring is old or faulty.

According to Praxis 42, electrical hazards are a significant reason for residential fires, leading to about 20,000 accidental fires in UK households attributed to electrical issues each year.

Why It’s Dangerous:

Old or poorly installed electrical systems can cause serious problems, such as electric shocks, fires, or damage to expensive devices. Faulty connections or exposed wiring can also lead to short circuits, creating a significant safety hazard.

How to Manage It:

Hiring a qualified electrician to check your electrical systems before renovating is vital. Ensure all wiring and electrical parts meet safety regulations. If you’re unsure, getting professional help is best instead of attempting DIY electrical work.

• Risks to Structural Integrity from Weak Walls

Many homeowners, especially those doing renovations alone, may think they can safely remove or change most walls. However, some walls are essential for supporting the structure of the building, and removing or altering them without proper support can cause serious problems.

Why It’s Dangerous:

Load-bearing walls support the weight of the floors and roof above. If these walls are changed or removed without proper support, the building could partially or wholly collapse, creating serious risks for the building and for anyone inside.

How to Manage It:

Before you start any demolition, talk to a structural engineer. They can easily help you determine if the walls you want to remove are load-bearing. If they are, the engineer will provide essential advice and ensure enough support during the remodelling.

• Radon Exposure and Its Hidden Dangers

Radon is a radioactive gas from the ground and can enter buildings. Many people often overlook it when making home improvements. You cannot see or smell radon, but it can be harmful as time passes, especially in places with poor ventilation, like basements or ground-floor rooms. Studies show that only one in five people in the UK know about the health risks of radon gas.

Why It’s Dangerous:

Long-term exposure to high levels of radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the UK. This gas can build up in closed spaces, putting people’s health at risk, mainly those who spend a lot of time indoors.

How to Manage It:

Before starting renovations, especially in basements or ground-level areas, check for radon levels in your home. If the radon levels are too high, you can take steps to reduce them, such as improving ventilation or installing a radon sump system.

• Lead Paint and Its Health Risks

If your house was built before the 1970s, it may still have lead-based paint, especially on the windows, door, and trim. Lead paint is not just a cosmetic issue but can pose serious health risks. These risks increase when the paint breaks down, flakes, or gets disturbed during renovations.

Why It’s Dangerous:

Lead exposure can cause serious health problems, especially in children. It can result in developmental delays, behavioural issues, and learning difficulties. Adults can also suffer from lead poisoning, which can lead to headaches, stomach pains, and possible kidney damage.

How to Manage It:

Test your property for lead-based paints before sanding or scraping off old paint. If lead is found, hiring a professional to remove the paint safely is essential to avoid exposure. Always wear the proper protective gear and follow safe removal steps to reduce risks.

• Poor Ventilation and Its Impact on Air Quality

Renovations that block off areas, change windows, or alter the structure without thinking about airflow can lead to poor ventilation. Good ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment, especially during or after renovations when dust, moisture, and pollutants are likely to build up.

Why It’s Dangerous:

Poor ventilation can lead to moisture buildup, creating a suitable environment for mould and mildew. This can cause breathing problems, allergies, and general discomfort. Plus, still air can result in unpleasant smells and low indoor air quality.

How to Manage It:

Ensure your renovation plan includes good ventilation, mainly in bathrooms, kitchens, basements. Add air vents or extractor fans. You should also consider upgrading your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for better air circulation and moisture control.

Conclusion

Remodelling your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of hidden dangers that could disrupt your plans. By spotting and dealing with these risks early, you can protect your home and finances and keep your loved ones safe. Careful planning and expert advice are essential to avoid expensive and dangerous mistakes. With the proper preparation, your renovation can succeed, making your home a safe and stylish place.