Homeowners are reminded that applications are now being accepted for the 2013 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).
With the combined 2011 and 2012 programs, $4 million in subsidy funding has provided 2,100 Winnipeg homes with improved basement protection.
There is $3 million in funding for the 2013 program. 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.
To be eligible for the subsidy, the applicant must:
- be the owner of a residential building (single-family home, duplex, multi-family home) serviced by a City wastewater sewer at the time of the eligible installation
- not have outstanding taxes or debts owed to the City of Winnipeg at the time the application is processed
- submit the application within one year of final inspection
- hire a plumber and electrician (if required) licensed by the City of Winnipeg
- ensure that appropriate permits are obtained prior to installation from the Planning, Property and Development Department, and arrange for the necessary inspection of the eligible installation
- drain water collected in the sump pit drainage system in compliance with the Lot Grading By-law
Full program details, including subsidy conditions, eligibility criteria and the application form, are available on the City’s website. [WINNIPEG.CA]
