City of Winnipeg and Province of Manitoba Flooding Protection Subsidy Program

February 25, 2011

Why is the City of Winnipeg and Province of Manitoba doing this?
The City of Winnipeg and Province of Manitoba have introduced a subsidy program to help homeowners protect their basement from flooding caused by overloaded sewers during severe weather

Who is eligible for the subsidy?
Homes serviced by a City wastewater sewer, the subsidy is available to owners who install one or both of these protective devices: an in-line backwater valve approved by the Manitoba Plumbing Code or a sump pit drainage system that meets the Winnipeg Building By-laws

What is an in-line backwater valve?
It is a valve installed in your main sewer pipe or the basement branch line of your home so that it protects all fixtures below grade from sewer backup. It will close if sewage backs up from the City sewer.

What is a sump pit system?
A sump pit system includes a sump pit, a sump pump, a dedicated electrical circuit for the pump, and a discharge pipe. The sump pit, set into the basement floor, collects water from the weeping tiles around your basement. The pump pushes the water outside your house through the discharge pipe.

How much is the subsidy?
The subsidy is 60 per cent of the invoiced cost, including eligible labour, materials, permit(s) and taxes, up to a maximum 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.

How do I qualify for the subsidy?
You must: ensure that the required permits are taken out and the eligible devices are installed on or after May 1, 2010, ensure that your contractor takes out the permit if you want to claim labour costs, ensure that the eligible installations are inspected and approved by a City of Winnipeg inspector, and submit an application form and original receipts within one year of the date of final inspection.

Can I install the protective devices myself?
Yes. However, if you choose to do the work yourself: You cannot claim your labour costs. You will still need to take out the necessary permits.

Who arranges for the inspection?
You or your contractor can arrange the inspection. It must take place before you enclose or cover the eligible installation.

For more information Click Here, phone 311 or email basementprotectionsubsidy@winnipeg.ca