A flooded basement is a stressful event for any homeowner. In addition to costly repairs and unplanned renovations, flooding can destroy precious and irreplaceable personal items.
Not all homes in the Ottawa area face a high risk of flooding, but those that do should take steps to protect their home by ensuring they are equipped with an efficient sump pump and a battery powered backup.
Through the City of Ottawa’s Protective Plumbing Program, eligible homeowners can receive sump pump rebates to help offset the cost of flood mitigation systems.
What is the Residential Protective Plumbing Program?
Ottawa’s Residential Protective Plumbing Program helps homeowners protect their homes from floods and sewage backups by providing rebates on the installation of protective systems like backwater valves.
Recently, the program was updated to include sump pumps with battery backup systems, making it more affordable to safeguard your home against basement flooding.
How Much are the Rebates and What Qualifies?
Rebates are available on multiple protective plumbing devices. Here’s what’s included and how much you can save:
| Device | Maximum Rebate Amount |
|---|---|
| Primary Sump Pump with battery backup power installed in an existing sump pit | $1500 |
| Secondary Sump Pump with battery backup power installed in an existing sump pit | $1500 |
| Primary Sump Pump with battery backup power and construction of a sump pit | $3000 |
| Secondary Sump Pump with battery backup power and construction of a sump pit | $3000 |
| Storm backwater valve | $1000 |
| Outdoor storm backwater valve | $2500 |
| Indoor sanitary backwater valve | $1000 |
| Permits | 100% of the current cost |
What are the Eligibility Criteria?
Residential properties within the City of Ottawa can qualify for protective plumbing rebates, but certain conditions apply depending on the device:
- Primary and secondary sump pumps with battery backup: Installation of new pumps only. Repairs, maintenance, and replacements do not qualify.
- Sanitary backwater valves: Home must have been built prior to 2012.
- Stormwater backwater valves: Home must have been built prior to 2004.
How do I Claim My Protective Plumbing Rebate?
The application process is simple and can be submitted online through the City of Ottawa website.
To complete the application, you will need to provide the following:
- Proof of Ownership (deed, property tax bill, or land transfer)
- Building permit (with receipt) and building inspection report if the rebate is for a backwater valve or construction of new sump pit
- Invoice from the contractor who completed the installation
Click here to apply for the rebate online.
Do I Need a Sump Pump?
When groundwater collects from rainfall or snowmelt, it can build up around your home’s foundation. A sump pit with a pump, installed in a pit at the lowest point of the home, removes this water to help prevent it from seeping inside.
Any property that is in a flood risk area should have a sump pit with a working sump pump as well as a secondary, battery-operated backup pump.
Your Ottawa home should be equipped with a sump pump if:
- The property is in a low-lying area
- You live near a river or other body of water
- Your soil doesn’t drain well
Areas in Ottawa and the surrounding region known to be at higher risk of flooding include:
- Britannia
- Rockcliffe Park
- Sandy Hill
- LeBreton Flats
- Woodlawn
- Dunrobin
- Manotick
- Greely
- Huntley
- North Gower
- Kars
What is a Battery Backup Sump Pump?
A battery backup pump is a second, battery-operated sump pump. It’s a common misconception that it’s simply a battery attached to the main sump pump, but it’s actually a standalone pump, typically installed just above the primary pump.
The backup pump will turn on if:
- There is a power outage
- The primary pump can’t keep up with rising water
- The primary pump fails
A Battery Backup Sump Pump Could Save You Money on Insurance
Installing a sump pump with a secondary battery-operated backup can significantly reduce the risk of property damage from flooding. Many home insurance providers offer discounts for having one in place. We recommend reaching out to your insurer to ask about potential savings.
Call Plumbing Now: Prevent a Basement Flood
At Plumbing Now, we provide homeowners with peace of mind by supplying high-quality sump pumps and expert installation.
Need Ottawa plumbing services? Our friendly team is here to help you keep your property safe. Get a quote or book an appointment online today or call us at 613-212-4857.