Property owners advised of increased risk of basement flooding

Released: April 22, 2014 at 3:16 p.m.
Sewer system vulnerable with high river levels and expected rain

WINNIPEG, MB - With rain in the forecast for the next few days, Winnipeg property owners are advised that there is an increased risk of basement flooding due to current high river levels.

High river levels increase the risk of basement flooding across the city. When river levels are high, the normal capacity of the sewer system is reduced. With heavy rains, there is an increased risk of overloaded sewers backing up through house sewer lines and flowing into basements that aren’t protected.

Although basement flooding is a risk any time of the year, the risk increases with high river levels because the sewer system must then rely heavily on pumping stations rather than gravity to carry the rainfall runoff.

“Homeowners should check their sump pumps and backwater valves regularly to make sure they are functioning properly,” says Susan Lambert, Field Service Operations Engineer with the City’s Water and Waste Department. “All residents should ensure drainage is directed away from the home by extending downspouts away from the basement walls and ensuring the earth is built up around the house.”

Property owners are reminded it is illegal to drain sump pump water into the basement floor drain or any other part of the house plumbing system, as it can overtax the sewer system placing their basement and those of their neighbours at risk of flooding and damage.

Homeowners are also reminded about the Basement Flood Protection Subsidy Program. The program was launched by the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg in 2011 to help homeowners protect their basements from flooding caused by overloaded sewers during severe weather (e.g., heavy rain, high river levels). Homeowners can apply for a subsidy of 60% of the invoiced cost, up to a maximum subsidized amount of:

  • $1,000 for installing an in-line backwater valve only,
  • $2,000 for installing a sump pit drainage system only,
  • $3,000 for installing both an in-line backwater valve and a sump pit drainage system.

More information on basement flood protection and the Basement Flood Protection Subsidy Program is available on the following web pages:

Protect Your Home from Basement Flooding

Basement Flood Protection Subsidy Program

The City also reminds citizens to keep children away from fast moving rivers and creeks, and off frozen ponds and lakes.

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