Town of Grimsby to Propose Basement Flood Protection Program

The Town of Grimsby is developing a program for owners of residential dwellings to reduce the risk of future basement flooding related to sewer back-ups. The Grimsby Basement Flood Protection Program (FPP) is in the early phases of development with plans to provide rebates to residential property owners who install flood protection measures within their homes. If approved by council, the program will look to begin in Q1 2027, subject to funding.

The FPP intends to reimburse eligible homeowners for 90% of the cost of eligible flood protection devices and associated work, up to a maximum of $6,500. The considered rebates would include 90% of the cost for backwater valve installation (up to a maximum of $1,500) and the installation of devices that support the disconnection of foundation or roof drains to remove stormwater from entering the sanitary sewer system (up to a maximum of $5,000).

The Town will continue developing the FPP over the coming months, including confirming program eligibility, application requirements, funding and implementation details. Properties meeting the eligibility requirements are anticipated to be eligible for this future program. As the program is still in development and has not been approved by Council, applications are not yet being taken. The Town recognizes that some residents may not want to wait until the program formally launches early next year and will consider allowing retroactive reimbursement for qualifying work completed after July 1, 2026. However, retroactive reimbursement has not been formally approved and cannot be guaranteed.

To coincide with the FPP proposition, a new webpage has been setup at grimsby.ca/floodprotection. This page provides in-depth information on the FPP as it is being developed (including a project overview, eligibility requirements, and the application and construction process), support resources for those affected by flooding, and general information to deal with water leakage.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to subscribe to the Town of Grimsby news alerts at grimsby.ca/subscribe. If you have specific questions about the program, please contact us at floodprotection@grimsby.ca.