Toilet constantly running or trickling

Free DIY guide — no sign-up required. Written by a qualified Gas Safe engineer.
DIY Friendly💷 £0£4020–45 min

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Most likely cause & what to check

1

Remove the cistern lid and observe — check if pushing down the rubber flap stops the running.

2

If pressing the flap stops it: the flap valve is worn. Turn off the water supply, flush to empty, and replace the flap valve (£3–£8).

3

If water is running into the overflow pipe: the fill valve isn't shutting off. Try bending the ball arm downward slightly.

4

If adjusting doesn't fix it, replace the fill valve (£10–£20).

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