Protect Your Home from Basement Flooding: City of Toronto’s Subsidy Program Explained

If you own a single-family home, duplex, triplex, or fourplex, you could qualify for up to $3,400 to install flood prevention devices. Eligible work includes:

1. Backwater Valve
   • What it does: Blocks sewer water from flowing back into your home during heavy rain.
   • Subsidy: Up to 80% of costs, max $1,250.
   • Requirements: A building permit and inspection are required. Your plumber must be licensed by the City.
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2. Sump Pump
   • What it does: Pumps water from your basement’s weeping tile system to the outside.
   • Subsidy: Up to 80% of costs, max $1,750.
   • Tip: Consider a battery backup in case of power outages.
     
3. Severing & Capping Foundation Drain Pipes
   • What it does: Disconnects old weeping tiles from city sewers.
   • Subsidy: Up to 80% of costs, max $400.

• You own an existing home (not under construction).
• Downspouts are disconnected from city sewers (or you’ve applied for an exemption).
• Your contractor has a valid City of Toronto business license Like Everest Drain and Plumbing
• You apply within 1 year of completing the work.
• No outstanding taxes or debts owed to the City.

Note: Funding is first-come, first-served. Apply early!

1. Get Permits: For backwater valves, obtain a building permit. Submit a Consent to Enter Form if installing both a valve and sump pump.
2. Hire a Licensed Contractor: Like us, Verify their license using the City’s Business Licence Lookup.
3. Complete the Work: Ensure devices meet City standards.
4. Submit Your Application Online: Include:
   • Original, itemized invoices marked “paid in full.”
   • Permit number (for backwater valves).
   • Photos of sump pumps/discharge pipes (if applicable).
5. Wait for Inspection: City staff will inspect backwater valves.

Processing takes up to 10 weeks. Keep copies of all documents!

• Maintain devices as per manufacturer instructions.
• Install alarms for backwater valves to know when they’re active (avoid using water during this time!).
• Test sump pumps regularly and consider battery backups.

• Get at least two quotes.
• Confirm their license type matches the work (e.g., Plumbing Contractor T94 for valves).
• Avoid unlicensed contractors—your subsidy could be denied.

With over 2000 backwater valves and sump pumps installed, Everest Drain and Plumbing has the experience and expertise you can trust. Our skilled team ensures:

• Precise Installation: Every valve and pump is installed with care, meeting the highest standards.
• Proven Reliability: With thousands of successful installations, we guarantee long-lasting, trouble-free performance.
• Full Service: From digging and patching to managing permits and subsidies, we handle every detail, ensuring a smooth experience.

• Disconnecting downspouts is not eligible for subsidy but is required for the program.
• Paved areas (like driveways) must follow City zoning rules.
• Applications missing documents or permits will not be processed.