Toronto Basement Flooding Subsidy 2026 — Complete Guide
Last reviewed: April 30, 2026 · Information verified against the City of Toronto official program page
Quick answer
The City of Toronto offers up to $6,650 per property for backwater valves, sump pumps, plumbing assessments, and other flood prevention measures. Subsidy covers 80% of eligible cost, capped per item. Effective May 1, 2026.
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Start the calculator →What changed on May 1, 2026
The City of Toronto significantly expanded the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program (BFPSP) to nearly double the maximum available support per property.
Before
$3,400
per property max
After May 1, 2026
$6,650
per property max
The expanded program also adds new categories: a Home Plumbing Assessment subsidy and a Sump Pump Battery Backup subsidy. Backwater valve and sump pump caps each increased by 28%.
What's eligible — full breakdown
Home Plumbing Assessment
up to $500
One-time professional assessment by a licensed plumber identifying internal plumbing issues that contribute to basement flooding. Note: individuals with a T85 Building Renovator licence are not eligible to perform this assessment.
New category in the expanded program
Backwater Valve
up to $1,600
per device · max 2 devices
A device that prevents reverse flow from the municipal sewer into your home during heavy rain or surcharge events. Maximum 2 devices per property qualify.
Caps increased 28% from previous program
Backwater valve rebate guide →Sump Pump
up to $2,250
A pump that moves groundwater collected by your weeping tile system away from the foundation. The City recommends discharging onto a permeable surface at least 2 metres from the foundation.
Caps increased 28% from previous program
Sump pump rebate guide →Sump Pump Battery Backup
up to $300
A battery backup system that keeps your sump pump running during power outages. Includes new installations and retrofits.
New category in the expanded program
Foundation Drain (Weeping Tile) Severance and Capping
up to $400
Disconnects foundation drains from the City sewer connection, reducing inflow to the sewer system and helping prevent backup pathways.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must meet all of these conditions:
- ✓You're the registered owner of a single-family home, duplex, triplex, or fourplex within the City of Toronto
- ✓Your property has not exceeded the lifetime maximum for each eligible installation
- ✓You have no outstanding taxes or debts owed to the City
- ✓Your contractor (and any subcontractors) hold a valid City of Toronto business licence
- ✓Your downspouts are disconnected from the City sewer system, or you have a City exemption
- ✓All front yard paved areas comply with the City's Zoning By-law
The 5-step application process
Get a plumbing assessment first
A professional assessment ($500 max subsidy) identifies which devices your home actually needs. Skipping this can mean installing the wrong solution.
Get quotes from licensed contractors
At least 2 quotes from contractors with valid City of Toronto business licences. You can verify at toronto.ca/business-licence-search.
Get permits before installation
Backwater valve installation requires a building permit from Toronto Building. The contractor should handle the permit application.
Complete the work + inspection
Backwater valves require City inspection. Keep itemized invoices marked "paid in full" — the City requires originals.
Submit application within 2 years
For work completed on or after Nov 12, 2025: 2-year window. For work before Nov 12, 2025: 1-year window. Apply online at toronto.ca/BFPsubsidy.
Common reasons subsidies get rejected
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Check my potential subsidy →Frequently asked questions
How much is the Toronto basement flooding subsidy?
As of May 1, 2026, up to $6,650 per property — 80% of eligible costs, capped per item: backwater valves ($1,600 each, max 2), sump pump ($2,250), sump pump battery backup ($300), home plumbing assessment ($500), foundation drain capping ($400).
Who qualifies for the BFPSP?
Owners of single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes within the City of Toronto. Work must be done by a contractor with a valid City of Toronto business licence. Condos and apartments are not eligible.
When did the enhanced rates take effect?
May 1, 2026. Homeowners who completed eligible work on or after November 12, 2025 may apply for enhanced rates. Application must be submitted within 2 years of completion.
What was the previous maximum subsidy?
Before May 1, 2026, the program offered up to $3,400 per property. The expanded program nearly doubles the maximum to $6,650 and adds new categories like home plumbing assessment and sump pump battery backup.
How long does the subsidy approval take?
The City of Toronto notes processing typically takes up to 10 weeks after a complete application is submitted.
SOURCE & DISCLAIMER
Subsidy amounts based on official information from the City of Toronto. Last verified: April 30, 2026. View the official program page →
ClaimRebate.ca is an independent homeowner guide. We are not affiliated with the City of Toronto. Final eligibility and subsidy amounts are determined by the program administrator.