
The City of Toronto is offering owners of single-family, duplex and triplex residential homes a financial subsidy of up to $3,400 per property to install flood protection devices, including a backwater valve, through the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce the risk of the city of Toronto’s basement flooding caused by severe weather and sewer backups.
A backwater valve is a one-way valve that protects your home by closing its sewer pipe, preventing water from travelling back up the pipe into your basement. The entire plumbing system is protected from municipal sewer backup with just one conveniently located backwater valve at the point where the building drain sewer exits your home. An ExpressRooter Plumbing plumber can help you protect your home by installing a backwater valve that is approved and covered by the program.
How it works
Under normal circumstances, the valve will remain open. When the valve detects a large amount of backflow in your line from the city sewer, it automatically shuts off and closes the pipe. This way, the excess water cannot enter your sewer line and flood your basement.
Because the valve remains open all the time, it allows for sewer line gases and wastewater to flow in and out. This means that the normal function of the pipes is not disturbed. Homeowners can play a key role in preventing basement flooding in the city of Toronto by installing protective devices, such as backwater valves.
Contact ExpressRooter today to learn how you can qualify for a subsidized backwater valve installation.
FAQs:
What exactly is the subsidy program for basement flooding protection?
It is a financial aid program provided to Toronto homeowners to assist with the installation of flood prevention devices, such as backwater valves. The basement flooding protection subsidy program is designed to minimize the risk of basement flooding resulting from heavy rains or sewage overflows.
Who is eligible to apply for this subsidy?
The owners of single-family, duplex, and triplex residential houses in Toronto are eligible; however, the work must be performed by a licensed plumber, and the installed devices must be approved. We will guide you through the entire eligibility checklist for the City of Toronto Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program to ensure you don’t miss any details.
How much money can I get through the program?
The maximum amount you can receive is $3,400 per property, depending on the nature of the work and devices installed. The program covers backwater valves and sump pumps. We assist homeowners across the city to apply and qualify for the basement flooding protection subsidy program in Toronto without confusion and delays.
What is a backwater valve, and how does it help?
It is a one-way valve installed in your main sewer line. It remains open during normal use and closes automatically when water attempts to flow back into your home. It is among the primary devices eligible for the Toronto Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program, offering a sense of security during heavy rainfall.
Can ExpressRooter install the backwater valve and handle the necessary paperwork as well?
Yes. We do it all, including site evaluation, installation by certified plumbers, and assistance with the city paperwork. We will ensure that the work is eligible to receive the subsidy and that you file all the documents that the City of Toronto needs in time.
How fast can you install the system after approval?
We can typically install within a few days in most cases. We do not procrastinate the job or make it drag on; once the paperwork is sorted, we are ready to get to work. Flood protection should not be postponed, particularly as storms are increasingly common throughout Toronto.


