Why does my toilet keep running after my bathroom renovation?

A toilet that keeps running after a bathroom renovation is typically caused by displaced internal components, debris in the tank, or installation issues with new parts. This is one of the most common post-renovation plumbing problems and is usually fixable with some basic adjustments.

During bathroom renovations, several factors can disrupt your toilet's normal operation. Construction dust and debris often settle into the toilet tank, interfering with the flapper seal or getting caught in the chain mechanism. The flapper may have warped or shifted during the work, preventing it from sealing properly against the flush valve seat. If your toilet was moved or reinstalled, the chain length might be incorrect — too long and the flapper won't lift fully, too short and it won't close completely.

Water level issues are another common culprit. The float or fill valve may have been bumped during construction, causing the water level to rise too high and continuously flow into the overflow tube. Alternatively, if new flooring was installed, the toilet may have been reset at a slightly different height, affecting the internal mechanisms' alignment.

In Metro Vancouver's older homes, particularly Vancouver Specials and character houses built before 1980, toilet components may have been jarred loose if there was significant vibration from demolition work. Hard water deposits common in some Lower Mainland areas can also cause components to stick after being disturbed during renovation.

Start with these troubleshooting steps: Remove the toilet tank lid and check if the flapper is sealing properly against the flush valve seat. Clean any debris around the flapper and seat. Adjust the chain so there's about 1/2 inch of slack when the flapper is closed. Check that the water level sits about 1 inch below the tank rim — if it's too high, bend the float arm down or adjust the fill valve.

When to call a professional: If these basic adjustments don't solve the problem, or if you notice water pooling around the toilet base, contact a licensed plumber. In BC, plumbing work beyond simple adjustments requires a licensed professional, and toilet reinstallation should always be done properly to prevent costly water damage. Any signs of leaking around the base could indicate wax ring issues that need immediate professional attention.

Try the basic adjustments first, but don't hesitate to call a plumber if the problem persists.

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