Winnipeg, MB - Protect your home against basement flooding this summer by taking advantage of the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. The Subsidy Program, introduced by the City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba, provides homeowners with a subsidy for installing an in-line backwater valve, a sump pit drainage system, or both.
“I am pleased the City of Winnipeg can assist homeowners with the costs of installing backwater valves to improve home drainage systems again this year through the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “I thank the Manitoba Government for partnering with the City of Winnipeg to help Winnipeggers protect their homes against damage caused by sewer backup or drainage events from flooding or severe weather.”
The subsidy is 60 per cent of the invoiced cost, including eligible labour, materials, permit(s) and taxes, up to a maximum of:
- $1,000 for installing an in-line backwater valve only,
- $2,000 for installing a sump pit drainage system only, or
- $3,000 for installing both an in-line backwater valve and a sump pit drainage system.
The subsidy is available on a first-come, first-serve basis to Winnipeg residents owning a home serviced by a City wastewater sewer who install one or both of these protective devices:
- an in-line backwater valve approved by the Manitoba Plumbing Code,
- a sump pit drainage system that meets the requirements of the Winnipeg Building By-law and the Lot Grading By-law.
The subsidy is not available:
- to any homes that were required by Building or Plumbing Codes to have a backwater valve and/or sump pit drainage system installed at the time of construction,
- for backflow devices that are installed in the floor drain, or
- to homeowners that have outstanding amounts owing to the City of Winnipeg.
To be eligible for the subsidy, homeowners must:
- ensure the required permits are taken out and the eligible device(s) are installed on or after May 1, 2010,
- ensure their contractor takes out the permit if they want to claim labour costs,
- ensure the eligible installations are inspected and approved by a City of Winnipeg inspector, and
- submit an application form and original receipts within one year of the date of final inspection.
Residents can find the application form, complete eligibility criteria, and other program details by contacting 311, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone at 311 or by email at 311@winnipeg.ca, or by visiting City of Winnipeg - Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program.