A dripping or leaking can`t always be fixed so easily but the good news is that the problem can usually be fixed by following a few simple steps.

It might be that a washer that has perished over the years or because the cistern is empty or low after flushing the toilet. As the floating arm rises with the water level, the fill valve should shut again and If the washer in the valve is damaged the cistern  valve won’t be resealed properly. This can cause water to leak into the cistern and will cause water to flow out through the overflow pipe which is what causes the constant drip or trickle.

Obviously it`s easier to look on TRADESCOPE for a trusted local plumber but if you wanted to look at it then here`s the idea:

You will need the following:
Replacement washers
Step 1: Turn off the water supply at the stopcock (usually located under the kitchen sink).

Step 2: Drain the tank and flush the loo to empty the cistern.

Step 3: Access the washer and remove the split pin that keeps the float arm in place and your damaged washer will be behind the cistern; locate the washer and remove it.

Step 4: Replace and reassemble the broken washer with a new one, then put the float arm back in place.

Step 5: Test it out by switching the water supply back on and if the drip has gone – you`ve cracked it! If not, you adjust the water level on your cistern which can be done with a screwdriver by adjusting the screw and nut next to the inlet valve on the floating arm.

Good luck!!