General Plumbing Repairs

Running Toilet Investigation

A running toilet can waste a surprising amount of water and often points to a worn or misaligned part inside the cistern. A running toilet investigation pinpoints the exact cause, then puts it right with a targeted repair and thorough testing so your toilet refills and shuts off properly.

More information

What the running toilet investigation covers

This service focuses on diagnosing why a toilet keeps running or intermittently refilling, then completing the most appropriate repair.

  • Confirming the symptoms (constant running, periodic refills, weak flush, overflow)
  • Isolating the water supply safely before opening the cistern
  • Inspecting key components such as the fill valve, float, flush valve, siphon and seals
  • Identifying hidden issues like poor adjustment, scale build-up, or a slow leak into the pan
  • Repairing or replacing faulty parts where needed
  • Checking for leaks at the cistern, connections and isolation valve
  • Testing refill level, shut-off, flush performance and final operation

When this service is right for you

Book an investigation if you can hear the toilet refilling when nobody has used it, if water is constantly running into the pan, or if the cistern will not stop filling. It is also suitable if you have damp around the toilet base, a weak flush, or a higher than normal water bill. Landlords and small commercial sites often use this service to keep facilities reliable and reduce avoidable water waste.

How the visit works

The engineer will assess the toilet type (close-coupled, low level, high level, or concealed cistern where accessible) and confirm the fault through visual checks and functional tests. The water supply is isolated, the cistern is opened, and components are inspected and measured for correct levels and alignment. Once the cause is confirmed, the repair is completed and the toilet is tested through multiple flush and refill cycles.

After the repair

You will be shown what was causing the issue and how the fix resolves it. Where appropriate, you will receive practical advice on avoiding repeat problems, such as early warning signs of worn valves or scale build-up. If further work is recommended, for example if the cistern is heavily corroded or access is restricted, you will be given clear options before any next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my toilet keep running after it has filled?
This is usually caused by a faulty fill valve, a worn flush valve seal, or water escaping into the pan due to poor alignment or debris. An investigation confirms which component is failing so the repair is targeted and reliable.
Is a running toilet urgent?
It is worth dealing with promptly because it can waste a lot of water and may worsen into a leak. If water is overflowing or you see dampness around the toilet, isolate the supply and arrange a visit as soon as possible.
Will you be able to fix it on the first visit?
Many running toilet issues are resolved during the visit by adjusting or replacing common cistern components. If a specialist part is needed or access is restricted, you will be advised on the quickest next step once the fault is confirmed.
Do I need a new toilet if it keeps refilling?
Not usually. Most faults relate to replaceable internal parts rather than the toilet pan or cistern itself. A proper diagnosis will confirm whether a repair is suitable or whether replacement is the better long-term option.
Can you investigate concealed cisterns and dual flush toilets?
Yes, provided there is suitable access through a service panel or flush plate opening. The investigation checks the same principles but uses the correct fittings and adjustments for the specific mechanism.

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