Get up to $3,400+ to Waterproof Your Home. We Handle the Installation & Paperwork.
Toronto Subsidy at a Glance
- Current Maximum Rebate: Up to $3,400 per property.
- Future Increase (2026): City Council has proposed increasing this cap to $6,650 effective May 2026.
- Eligible Upgrades: Backwater Valve ($1,250), Sump Pump ($1,750), Pipe Severance ($400).
- Who applies? You (the homeowner) submit the application; DryS\shield provides the licensed invoice.
- Service Areas: Toronto, Etobicoke, North York, Scarborough.
Did you know the City of Toronto will pay you to flood-proof your basement? Through the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program, eligible homeowners can receive a substantial subsidy for installing flood protection devices.
Current Subsidy Limit: Up to $3,400 per property. (Note: City Council has proposed increasing this cap to $6,650 effective May 2026. Call us to discuss the best timing for your application).
Dryshield is a fully licensed City of Toronto contractor. We specialize in installing the specific systems required by this program, and we assist you with the application process to ensure you get your rebate fast.
What Does the Subsidy Cover?
The program targets three specific flood-protection upgrades. You can apply for just one, or all three, depending on your home’s needs.
1. Backwater Valve Installation
Rebate: Up to $1,250 A backwater valve is your best defense against sewage backup. It automatically closes if the city sewer main becomes overloaded during heavy rain, preventing sewage from flowing backward into your basement.
- Requirement: Must be installed by a licensed plumber/contractor.
2. Sump Pump Installation
Rebate: Up to $1,750 Sump pumps collect excess water from around your foundation and pump it away from your home. If you have weeping tiles, a sump pump is critical for keeping your basement dry during storms.
- Requirement: Must include a backup power source (battery) or alarm in some cases to maximize safety.
- Dryshield Service: We install high-capacity sump pumps and battery backup systems.
3. Foundation Drain (Weeping Tile) Pipe Severance
Rebate: Up to $400 This involves capping your home’s storm sewer connection and severing the pipe to disconnect your weeping tiles from the city’s drain system. This is often done in conjunction with installing a sump pump.
Am I Eligible?
To qualify for the City of Toronto rebate, you must meet these simple criteria:
- Location: You own a single-family, duplex, or triplex residential home within the City of Toronto.
- Condition: The property must have its eavestrough downspouts disconnected from the city sewer system (or you must apply to have them disconnected).
- Contractor: You must hire a contractor with a valid City of Toronto business license (like DryShield). DIY installations do not qualify.
How to Get Your Subsidy (The Easy Way)
The City of Toronto paperwork can be confusing. Dryshield simplifies the process into 3 steps:
- Free Assessment: Call us for a free inspection. We will check your plumbing and foundation to see which upgrades (Backwater Valve or Sump Pump) your home needs.
- Professional Installation: Our licensed team installs the devices according to the strict Toronto Building Code standards required for the rebate.
- Application Support: We provide you with the official invoice and help you complete the application form to ensure it is approved without delay.
Important Note: You do not need to wait for a flood to apply. This is a preventative program available right now. For a full waterproofing guid visit our Basement waterproofing Toronto page
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to get the rebate cheque?
Once your application and our invoice are submitted, the City of Toronto typically processes the subsidy within 10 to 14 weeks.
Can I install the sump pump myself?
No. The Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program strictly requires that the work be performed by a contractor with a valid City of Toronto business license. DIY work is not eligible for the refund.
Do you handle rebates outside of Toronto?
Yes! Many GTA municipalities have even higher rebates than Toronto. We service all these areas and help with their specific paperwork:
- Halton Region (Oakville, Burlington): The Enhanced Basement Flooding Prevention Subsidy offers 100% coverage up to $6,500 for weeping tile disconnection and sump pump installation.
- Peel Region (Mississauga, Brampton, Caledon): The Sanitary Backwater Valve Rebate covers 60% of invoiced costs up to $1,500.
Protect Your Home & Claim Your Rebate Today
Don’t wait for the next heavy rainfall. Secure your basement and let the city pay for the upgrades.Contact or Call us for a Free Estimate1-800-277-5411 Licensed. Insured. Trusted for 25+ Years.

