Accessing a toilet cistern concealed behind a wall that's been tiled

My leaky toilet cistern is behind a wall, which has tiles all over it. The only access is via a shelf above it that can open up. However it's very difficult to get access to the bottom of the cistern. How best to do this in order to fix the leak at the bottom of the cistern? Thanks

Asked by Martin on 11th Jun 2026
Expert Trade Answers
Best Answer
"Is it a back to wall toilet? You may get better access to the bottom by removing the toilet first. Unfortunately is a awkward job either way"
Answered on 11th Jun 2026 - Member since Apr 2025 - report
"Cut the grout lines of the tiled area that needs to be removed including the back panel.
Use a multi tool with a grout removal blade.
Once the repair is done stick some timber to the inside of the panel either side where the tiles were with some instant grab adhesive.
Once dry stick the panel & tiles you took out & Once dry re grout the grout lines.
Job done
Hope that helps

Regards Martin
HBB Property Services"
Answered on 11th Jun 2026 - Member since May 2017 - report
"That the only way unless you take tiles off they hard to do sometimes you do have to take it all apart"
Answered on 11th Jun 2026 - Member since Dec 2025 - report
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