Guide: city programs
The City Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Explained
Toronto has offered homeowners a subsidy toward basement flood protection. Here is how such programs generally work and what to check before you start.
- Get an assessment. A licensed plumber assesses which measures suit the house.
- Obtain permits. Plumbing permits are typically required and the work is inspected.
- Submit on time. Programs may have deadlines measured from the inspection date.
- Backwater valve: stops sewer backups.
- 24/7Phone response
- 23Neighbourhoods served
- 42Plumbing services
- 1 callNo forms, no queue
- Licensed & insured plumbers
- Phone answered day and night
- Camera findings shown to you
- North York, Thornhill, Richmond Hill
What the program has covered
The City of Toronto’s Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program has offered financial help toward several flood protection measures for eligible single-family, duplex and triplex homes. Over the years these have included a backwater valve, a sump pump with pipe severance, and sealing off the weeping tile link to the sanitary sewer. Amounts and conditions have changed over time.
General steps
- Check eligibility. Programs often apply to certain property types and require the owner to apply.
- Get an assessment. A licensed plumber assesses which measures suit the house.
- Obtain permits. Plumbing permits are typically required and the work is inspected.
- Keep paperwork. Invoices, permits and inspection records are usually needed for the application.
- Submit on time. Programs may have deadlines measured from the inspection date.
Measures and what they do
- Backwater valve: stops sewer backups.
- Sump pump: removes groundwater collected by weeping tiles.
- Pipe severance and capping: disconnects weeping tiles from the sanitary sewer.
Useful details to have ready
Gather any past flooding history, insurance claims and photos. Note where your floor drain and main cleanout are. Ask your insurer whether they offer premium changes for installed protection. Then call us for an assessment. See basement flooding protection.