Toronto is taking proactive measures to prevent basement flooding following last year’s destructive rainstorms that impacted over 1,000 homes in the city.
This week, Mayor Olivia Chow proposed expanding the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program (BFPSP) to bolster stormwater management efforts and assist homeowners in safeguarding their properties. If approved, the enhancements would almost double the financial aid available to residents.
“In times of financial strain, investing in sump pumps and backwater valves may not be a top priority. However, basement floods can have devastating consequences,” explained Chow. “With the Enhanced Basement Protection Subsidy Program, homeowners could receive up to $6,650 to fortify their homes against future storms.”
This initiative follows the torrential rainfalls in July and August 2024, which led to overwhelmed storm sewers and extensive basement flooding. In response, city officials are proposing key changes to the subsidy program, including raising the maximum subsidy per property and adjusting subsidies for backwater valves and sump pumps to account for inflation and market rates.
The enhanced program is slated to potentially begin on May 1, 2026, pending approval. The proposal will undergo review by the committee before advancing to the council for a final decision next month.
Keyphrase: Toronto basement flooding