City of Toronto's $3,400 Flood Subsidy — How to Qualify

Most Toronto homeowners who have experienced basement flooding do not know that the City offers up to $3,400 per property for flood protection improvements. This is not a new program — the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy has been running for years — but it remains under-used because homeowners do not know about it or assume the application process is complicated.

It is not complicated. Here is everything you need to know.

What the Subsidy Covers

The City of Toronto's Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program provides rebates for the following installations:

• Backwater valve: Up to $1,250 per valve. A backwater valve is installed in your sewer lateral and physically prevents sewer water from flowing backward into your basement. This is the most effective protection against sewer surcharge events.
• Sump pump: Up to $1,750 for sump pump system installation, which may include a pit, pump, and discharge pipe. A sump pump collects groundwater that enters the basement and pumps it away from the foundation.
• Sewage ejector pump: Up to $1,750 for an ejector pump that pumps sewage upward when fixtures are below the sewer line — common in basement bathrooms in Toronto's older homes.
• Combined installations: Multiple devices can be claimed, up to the total program maximum of $3,400 per property.

Who Qualifies

To be eligible for the City of Toronto subsidy:

• You must be the owner of a residential property in the City of Toronto (not a tenant)
• The installation must be completed by a licensed contractor
• A permit must be obtained from Toronto Building before or after the installation (depending on the device type)
• Inspections must be completed and approved
• Applications must be submitted within 18 months of the permit application date

How to Apply

The application process requires:

1. Get a licensed plumber or contractor to assess and quote the installation
2. Apply for a building permit through Toronto Building (for backwater valve installation, a permit is required)
3. Have the installation completed and inspected
4. Submit the subsidy application to the City online at toronto.ca/flooding with supporting documentation: permit, inspection certificate, contractor invoice, and proof of payment
5. The City processes the application and issues payment by cheque

The program is run by Toronto Water and is separate from your insurance claim process. Receiving a subsidy does not affect your ability to file an insurance claim for water damage restoration.

Using the Subsidy After a Flood Event

Many Toronto homeowners are introduced to the subsidy program after experiencing flooding — which is actually a common pathway. After a sewer backup event is remediated and your basement is restored, a plumber installs a backwater valve as a protective measure. That installation is eligible for the subsidy.

We always advise homeowners about the subsidy program after completing sewer backup restoration or basement flooding cleanup jobs in Toronto. The installation is most valuable when done immediately after an event, and the subsidy reduces the out-of-pocket cost significantly.

Note that the subsidy is for new installations only, not for repairing existing devices. If you already have a backwater valve that failed and needs replacement, you would need to confirm eligibility with Toronto Water directly.

The full program details, eligibility requirements, and online application are available at toronto.ca. The Halton Region has a separate program for Oakville homeowners — see our guide to Oakville flood protection subsidies.