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Aftermath: Basement Flooding in Toronto

Some time has passed since Toronto homes were awash by nearly 97mm of rain, yet many residents still struggle with what the storm left behind. Although an exact number has yet to be tallied, experts surmise that the insured losses from this storm could well exceed $600-million. If these predictions are accurate, this storm stands a contender against southwestern Ontario’s devastating disaster in 2005, which was the third most expensive event of the last 20 years. Due to the fact the heavy rainfall buried cars, flooded basements, and damaged city infrastructure, a variety of insurance premiums are being claimed, costing the financial institutions and the residents of Toronto a fortune in repairs.

Basement Flooding in Toronto

Basement Flooding Protection Subsidiary Program

In this time of need, the City of Toronto promotes their Basement Flooding Protection Subsidiary Program. Through this program, the City extends up to $3,200 in financial subsidiary to single-family, duplex, and triplex homes. With this money, home owners are able to install a variety of flood protection devices, including:

  • Backwater Value — Up to 80% of the cost on a maximum of $1,250
  • Sump Pump — 80% of the cost up to a maximum of $1,750
  • Pipe Severance and Capping — 80% of the cost up to a maximum of $400

Eligible homes will also have the opportunity to combine the tools listed above, adjusting the maximum cost and subsidiary percentage accordingly. All maximum costs include labour, materials, as well as taxes. For more information on eligibility and application, please visit the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidiary Program website.

Basement Flooding in Toronto

Protect Yourself

On the City of Toronto’s website, they have posted a very educational video on flood protection. Due to a recent increase of severe weather conditions, residents are urged to watch this video and implement some of its tips:

  • Isolate your home from the City’s sewer system to reduce chances of basement flooding
  • Slope ground away from your home
  • Fix leaky pipes, windows, and basements
  • Clear eavesdrops of debris
  • Ensure downsprouts drain at least 18-metres from your home

Basement Flooding in Toronto

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