What should I do if my toilet is overflowing?

Stop more water entering the bowl

A toilet can overflow because of a blockage, a faulty flush mechanism or a cistern that will not stop filling. Do not flush again to test it; this can send more water onto the floor. If the cistern is filling, look for a small isolation valve on the pipe feeding it and turn it off gently. If there is no accessible valve, use the stopcock if safe.

Do not force a valve that is stiff or damaged. Keep children and pets away from any spilled water, which may contain waste. Avoid contact with skin and clean hands thoroughly after dealing with the area.

Manage the spill safely

1. 1Move rugs, electrical items and stored belongings away if you can do so without stepping into contaminated water.
2. 2If water is near sockets or an appliance, do not touch the item or enter the wet area. Isolate power at the consumer unit only from a dry, safe position.
3. 3Use suitable gloves and absorbent materials to contain a small spill, then clean and disinfect hard surfaces in line with product instructions.
4. 4Do not pour chemical drain cleaner into an overflowing toilet. It may splash back and can create a hazard for anyone who later clears the blockage.

Work out whether it is a blockage

If the bowl is draining slowly and the cistern is no longer adding water, a blockage may be present. A toilet plunger designed for the job can sometimes clear a simple obstruction, but stop if the water rises, the toilet is cracked or other drains are backing up. Do not use repeated force or improvised tools that could damage the pan or pipework.

If the toilet continues to overflow, several fixtures are affected or the cause is unclear, arrange a plumber. TraceFix provides emergency plumbing in Birmingham and London and can investigate the cistern, waste connection or drainage issue. Tell the plumber whether other toilets, sinks or outside drains are affected.