Toronto Basement Flooding Subsidy - Save Up to $3,400
Welcome to Flood Ready’s guide to the Toronto Basement Flooding Subsidy! If you’re a homeowner in Toronto, the City’s Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program (BFPSP) offers up to $3,400 CAD to help you install flood protection devices. With heavy rainfall and aging sewer systems increasing flood risks, this subsidy is a game-changer. Let’s break down how Flood Ready can help you save while protecting your home.
What Is the Toronto Basement Flooding Subsidy?
The BFPSP is a City of Toronto initiative to reduce basement flooding caused by overloaded sewers during extreme weather. It provides financial assistance to homeowners installing flood protection devices, offsetting costs to make homes safer and more resilient. The program has supported over 21,500 properties with approximately $37 million since its inception, averaging $1,700 CAD per household (City of Toronto). With Toronto’s history of severe storms—like the 2013 flood that impacted over 4,000 homes—this subsidy is critical for safeguarding your property.
Why the Subsidy Matters
Basement flooding can cost homeowners $43,000–$45,000 CAD in repairs (Insurance Bureau of Canada). The BFPSP helps you:
- Save Money: Cover up to 80% of installation costs, up to $3,400 CAD.
- Protect Your Home: Prevent water damage, mold, and structural issues.
- Boost Property Value: Flood-proofed homes attract buyers.
- Support Toronto’s Infrastructure: Reduce strain on municipal sewers.
Flood Ready’s licensed plumbers ensure your upgrades qualify for the subsidy, making the process seamless.
Eligible Upgrades and Rebate Amounts
The BFPSP covers 80% of the invoiced cost (including labor, materials, permits, and taxes) for these flood protection devices, up to the following maximums:
- Backwater Valve:
- Prevents sewage from backing up into your basement.
- Maximum Subsidy: $1,250 CAD.
- Includes installation, replacement, or alarms for monitoring.
- Sump Pump:
- Pumps groundwater away from your foundation to prevent flooding.
- Maximum Subsidy: $1,750 CAD.
- Covers installation, alarms, and battery backup systems.
- Foundation Drainage Capping:
- Severs and caps storm sewer or external weeping tile connections to reduce sewer overload.
- Maximum Subsidy: $400 CAD.
Total Subsidy: Up to $3,400 CAD per property by combining eligible upgrades.
Note: Disconnecting downspouts from your eavestrough system is not eligible for this subsidy.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the BFPSP, you must meet these criteria:
- Property Type: Own a single-family home, duplex, triplex, or residential fourplex in Toronto.
- Existing Homes: The property must be built before January 1, 2009, and not under construction.
- Contractor: Hire a plumber with a valid City of Toronto business license (Flood Ready is fully licensed).
- Permits: Obtain a City of Toronto building permit for backwater valve or sump pump installations.
- Inspection: Ensure Toronto Building staff inspect the installation to confirm compliance with building codes.
- Financial Standing: Have no outstanding taxes or debts owed to the City at the time of application.
- Application Deadline: Submit your application within one year of installation completion.
Additional Requirements:
- Downspouts must be disconnected from the City’s sewer system, or you must apply for an exemption.
- Front yard paved areas (e.g., parking pads) must comply with Toronto’s Zoning By-laws.
How to Apply for the Subsidy
Applying for the BFPSP is straightforward with Flood Ready’s support. Here’s the process:
- Schedule a Consultation: Contact Flood Ready at (416) 821-3106 or via our online form for a free assessment.
- Home Assessment: Our team evaluates your property and recommends eligible upgrades.
- Obtain Permits: We secure a City of Toronto building permit and include a Consent to Enter Form if needed.
- Install Upgrades: Our licensed plumbers install your backwater valve, sump pump, or drainage improvements, ensuring compliance.
- Request Inspection: Toronto Building staff inspect the installation to verify it meets code (we coordinate this).
- Submit Application:
- Complete the online BFPSP application at Toronto’s BFPSP Portal.
- Include original invoices marked “Paid in Full” with itemized costs and any subcontractor invoices.
- Receive Subsidy: Expect processing within 4-10 weeks. You’ll receive a confirmation email upon submission.
Flood Ready’s Role: We handle permits, inspections, and documentation, ensuring a smooth application. Our rebate support is included with any installation or available standalone for $150 CAD.
Costs and Savings with Flood Ready
Here’s how the subsidy impacts your costs:
| Upgrade | Starting Cost (Before Subsidy) | Maximum Subsidy | Net Cost (After Subsidy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backwater Valve | $2,000 CAD | $1,250 CAD | $750 CAD |
| Sump Pump | $2,500 CAD | $1,750 CAD | $750 CAD |
| Foundation Drainage | $750 CAD | $400 CAD | $350 CAD |
Total Potential Savings: Up to $3,400 CAD by combining upgrades, reducing your net cost significantly.
Why Choose Flood Ready?
- Licensed Plumbers: We meet all City requirements for subsidy eligibility.
- End-to-End Support: From assessment to application, we’ve got you covered.
- Quality Assurance: Our installations come with warranties and post-service support.
- Local Expertise: We understand Toronto’s flood risks and building codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the application process take?
Processing takes 4-10 weeks, but incomplete applications may be returned. We ensure your submission is complete.
Can I apply for multiple subsidies?
Yes, combine backwater valves, sump filtration for up to $3,400 CAD.
What if my contractor isn’t licensed?
Unlicensed work voids eligibility. Flood Ready’s plumbers are City-licensed—verify at (416) 392-6700.
Do I need to maintain these devices?
Yes, follow manufacturer instructions (e.g., annual valve cleaning, monthly pump tests). We offer maintenance plans.
What if I live outside Toronto?
Check rebates in other cities via the Intact Centre’s guide.
Take Action Today
Don’t let flooding damage your home—secure up to $3,400 CAD with Toronto’s Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy. Call Flood Ready at (416) 821-3106 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Try our Rebate Eligibility Calculator or download our Flood Protection Checklist to get started!Contact Us Get a Free Consultation