City of Toronto basement flooding subsidy
Toronto reimburses part of the cost of devices that protect a house from basement flooding. Etobicoke is part of the City of Toronto, so homeowners here qualify on the same terms.
- Maximumup to $6,650 per property
- Coversup to 80% of invoiced cost
- Apply within2 years of installation
What the program pays
These are the amounts the City publishes for work completed on or after November 12, 2025. Each is up to 80% of the invoiced cost, capped at the maximum shown.
| Device or work | Maximum subsidy | Our service |
|---|---|---|
| Backwater valve | $1,600 per valve, up to two valves | Backwater valves |
| Sump pump | $2,250 | Sump pumps |
| Battery backup for the sump pump | $300 | Sump pumps |
| Severance and capping of the foundation drain connection to the sewer | $400 | Weeping tile |
| Total per property | Up to $6,650 | |
The City sets and changes these amounts. Check the current figures and download the application on the City of Toronto’s subsidy page before you budget.
Conditions the City sets
- You are the registered owner, and the property is a single-family house, duplex, triplex or fourplex in Toronto.
- The downspouts are disconnected from the City’s sewer system, or the City has granted an exemption.
- The contractor and any sub-contractors who did the work hold a valid City of Toronto business licence.
- The application is submitted within two years of the installation.
- There are no outstanding taxes or debts owed to the City on the property.
Downspout disconnection comes first
Toronto requires every property owner to disconnect downspouts from the sewer system. A downspout that disappears into a pipe in the ground is usually still connected. Disconnecting it means cutting the downspout above the ground, capping the pipe, and adding an elbow and an extension so roof water lands at least a couple of metres from the foundation on ground that slopes away. It removes roof water from the sewer during storms, and it is a condition of the subsidy.
How we help with the application
- The quote separates subsidy-eligible items from the rest, so you can see what may be reimbursed.
- The final invoice is itemized the way the application requires.
- We tell you which downspouts are still connected and what disconnecting each one involves.
Questions about the subsidy
Who can apply?
The registered owner of a single-family, duplex, triplex or fourplex residential property in the City of Toronto — which includes all of Etobicoke.
Do I pay first and get money back, or does the City pay the contractor?
You pay the contractor, then apply to the City with the paid invoice. The subsidy is a reimbursement.
How long do I have to apply?
The application must be submitted within two years of the installation of each device.
Does exterior or interior waterproofing qualify?
No. The program covers backwater valves, sump pumps, battery backups and the severance and capping of the foundation drain connection. Membranes, interior drains and crack repair are not on the list.
Next step
Get a quote that shows the subsidy-eligible items
One visit covers the backwater valve, the sump pump and the downspouts.
Book a free assessment