In a move to mitigate the risks of basement flooding and alleviate strain on the sanitary sewer system, the Municipality of Lambton Shores has rolled out a grant program aimed at assisting residents in disconnecting sump pumps from sanitary sewers and installing backwater valves in their homes.
During periods of heavy rainfall, the existing sewer infrastructure often buckles under the weight of excess water, leading to sewage backups and subsequent property damage.
Under the program’s umbrella, two subsidy streams are offered:
- Sump Pump Disconnect Subsidy: Providing financial support of up to $2,500, this subsidy covers 100% of eligible costs, including permit fees. By engaging authorized contractors to disconnect sump pumps from the sanitary sewers, homeowners can effectively divert surplus water away from the system, thus mitigating the risk of overloads and subsequent backups.
- Backwater Valve Installation Subsidy: Also offering up to $2,500 in financial assistance, this subsidy facilitates the installation of backwater valves in residential plumbing systems. Designed to prevent sewage or wastewater from infiltrating properties during periods of intense rainfall or municipal system failures, these valves serve as a crucial line of defense against potential flooding and contamination.
To qualify for these subsidies, homeowners must demonstrate the absence of certain connections to the sanitary sewer, ensuring compliance with program guidelines. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, with the requisite forms available for download via the Municipality’s official website.
Lambton Shores Council has $50,000 earmarked for the grant program in 2024.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
