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Leaflet

Toronto Basement Flooding Subsidy Explained

Toronto has had a program that helps homeowners pay for basement flood protection. Here is how it has worked in practice, and what to check before you book anything.

  • Plain steps you can follow before help arrives
  • Written for North York houses and condos
  • Checklist at the end to keep by the panel
  • Call any time water is spreading

Speak to the desk(365) 517-5705

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  • Licensed and insured: details confirmed on the call
  • Plan explained before work starts
  • Residential and commercial

Order summary

The City's Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program has paid back part of the cost of three kinds of work: putting in a backwater valve, installing a sump pump, and severing and capping the connection between foundation drains and the sewer. Each of the three has carried its own cap, and the City has required permits, a licensed contractor, and specific paperwork. Program terms change, so confirm the current rules on the City's website or through 311 before work begins.

Numbered steps

  1. Read the current program page and note the eligible items and the documents required.
  2. Have the sewer lateral inspected by camera so the valve or work is planned on facts; see sewer camera inspection.
  3. Get an itemized quote that separates each eligible item from other work.
  4. Obtain the plumbing permit before work starts.
  5. Keep the invoice, proof of payment, permit and final inspection record together.
  6. Submit the application within the time limit the program sets.

Plumber's tip: Photograph the area before, during and after the work. Some applicants have been asked for photos, and they are useful for insurance anyway.

Errors we see on site

  • Starting work before the permit; this has disqualified applicants.
  • Lumping eligible and non-eligible work into one invoice line.
  • Skipping maintenance once the valve is in; see backwater valve care.
  • Assuming a subsidy covers repairs to the lateral itself; it has not in the past.

When the desk should come out

Call us when you are ready to plan the work. We write the quote so each item stands on its own line, pull the permit, and give you a copy of everything the application asks for. If you are unsure whether your house would benefit, we will inspect first and say so. Our specialties list shows all the related work.

Quick checklist

  • Check the current City program terms first
  • Get the plumber's quote and permit in order
  • Keep receipts and photos of the install

Your questions on this one

Is the subsidy guaranteed?

No. It depends on the program's terms at the time you apply. Always check first.

Call now · (365) 517-5705