'I'm a builder of 20 years - never do this when renovating your loo'

15 July 2023 , 02:17

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John shared what not to do when renovating your toilet (Image: HYPE Building/YouTube)

A builder has given some sage words of advice after his latest job left him reeling over what you should never do. John Sale, 43, has more than 20 years of experience in the industry and has warned that you could end up with a nasty shock thanks to one particular renovation.

He was working on an end-terrace home in Silverdale, Stoke, which is being converted into either a house of multiple occupancy (HMO) or a serviced accommodation, such as an Airbnb. But John soon learned it will take a lot of work to get it up to scratch.

He works as a consultant for Fenton-based HYPE Building and has become a hit on YouTube for videoing some of his projects, Stoke on Trent Live reports.

In his latest clip, he finds an alarming problem in one of the property's toilets. Its main light was plugged into a socket installed right next to the pan, with, inexplicably, speaker cable dangerously trailing from the fixture down to the power point.

In his latest clip, he finds an alarming problem in one of the property's toilets (HYPE Building/YouTube)

John pointed out not all men had the best aim - especially when they arrive home after having 'a few sherberts'.

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And anyone who misses the target and sprays the live socket instead risks the worst electric shock most men can probably fathom.

He said: "I don't think we'll have building regulations approval. And I'm absolutely loving the light that's on speaker cable. Look at that. With a socket next to toilet.

"I don't think that would be very good. Now just imagine this ladies - and gents. One comes in on a Friday or Saturday night, had a few too many sherbets. And as some men do, you come in here, and you start to aim, like so.

John Sale soon learned it will take a lot of work to get it up to scratch (HYPE Building/YouTube)

"And we miss, and we start firing over that. I wonder if you put two and two together what you get? A shock!"

There are plans to convert the rest of the house into four bedrooms, with two shared bathrooms and kitchenettes in some rooms. John already has plans to expand the bathroom by getting rid of the cupboard which housed the old water tank.

He also plans to convert the under the stairs space into a linen cupboard which would be necessary for serviced accommodation. The house is dated and requires extensive modernising. You can watch the full video here.

Flora Byatt