Flood Reduction Subsidy Program Helps Property Owners Reduce Basement Flooding Risks

Peterborough, ON – Property owners may be eligible for financial assistance from the City of Peterborough to make improvements that help reduce the risk of basement flooding and keep rainwater and groundwater out of the sanitary sewer system. 

The Flood Reduction Subsidy Program helps cover the cost of labour and materials for eligible flood reduction work that has been pre-approved by the City. Eligible improvements include installing a backwater valve, disconnecting foundation drains, downspouts and roof drains from the sanitary sewer system, and disconnecting catch basins from the sanitary sewer system. 

Rainwater and groundwater entering the sanitary sewer system can contribute to basement flooding and increase the amount of water that must be treated at the City’s wastewater treatment plant. Reducing this water helps preserve sewer capacity and protect wastewater infrastructure. 

Who Can Apply 

Property owners may be eligible if: 

• The City has contacted them about a non-conforming sanitary sewer connection on their property; or 

• The property has experienced basement flooding in the past 

Eligible property owners may receive funding for: 

• Backwater valve installation: full cost up to $1,000 

• Foundation drain disconnection with sump pit and pump: full cost up to $1,500 

• Backwater valve installation and foundation drain disconnection with sump pit and pump: full cost up to $3,000 

• Repair of broken cleanout covers: up to $50 

• Downspout disconnection: full cost up to $500 

• Roof drain disconnection: full cost up to $3,500 

• Catch basin disconnection from the sanitary sewer and reconnection to the storm sewer: full cost up to $15,000 

Funding for properties with more than one eligible improvement is considered on a case-by-case basis. 

How to Apply 

Property owners who may be eligible can apply by completing the Flood Reduction Subsidy Program application form available at peterborough.ca/FloodReduction. 

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the City's annual budget allocation.