Toronto Proposes Expanded Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program

City aims to double support for homeowners as flooding risks rise amid stronger storms

TORONTO —  The City of Toronto is taking new steps to help homeowners protect their properties from flooding, with a proposed expansion of the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program (BFPSP).

Mayor Olivia Chow announced the proposal on Wednesday, outlining key program enhancements that could take effect as early as May 1, 2026, pending approval by the Infrastructure and Environment Committee (IEC) and Toronto City Council.

The expansion follows two major storm events in 2024 that caused basement flooding in more than 1,000 homes. In response, City staff conducted consultations and reviewed current stormwater management programs to better support property owners facing increasingly severe rainfall patterns.

City of Toronto proposes new supports to help property owners protect their homes from flooding.

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Key proposed changes to the subsidy program

If approved, the updated program will include:

• Increasing the maximum subsidy per property from $3,400 to $6,650

• Raising subsidy amounts for backwater valves and sump pumps by 28% to reflect inflation

• Introducing a new Home Plumbing Assessment subsidy to identify internal plumbing issues

• Allowing a second backwater valve subsidy for properties with multiple sewer connections

• Adding a $300 subsidy for sump pump battery backup systems, including retrofits

• Extending the application period from one to two years after eligible work is completed

These enhancements aim to reduce flooding risks, particularly in older neighbourhoods where private plumbing systems may be more vulnerable to sewer backups and stormwater surges.

Building on past success

Since its launch in 2007, the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program has helped thousands of Toronto residents protect their homes. The City has issued nearly $86 million in subsidies and received about 59,000 applications, representing approximately 14% of Toronto’s residential properties.

“Sump pumps and backwater valves might be the last thing on the mind for a family struggling to make ends meet, but a flood in your basement can be devastating,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “The enhanced Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program will get homeowners up to $6,650 so they can afford to protect their homes and their families from the next big storm.”

A proactive approach to climate resilience

The proposed expansion is part of Toronto’s broader climate adaptation and stormwater management strategy, which focuses on mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events, protecting infrastructure, and helping residents safeguard their homes.

More information on the program and eligibility can be found at www.toronto.ca.

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