Documents for this program can be viewed and downloaded by using the links at the bottom of this page. 

The Basement Flooding Grant Program was established by City Council to assist property owners who have experienced sewer backups.  The grant is $2000 per property, specifically for the installation of protective measures against sewer backups.  Sewer backups typically occur when rainwater overloads a sewer system that is connected to your basement floor drain.  Occasionally backups occur when other problems with the sewer system occur.  If you are not sure if you experienced a sewer backup, you should work with the City of Toledo and experienced plumbers/sewer contractors to better determine if this grant applies to your problem. 
The grant application is submitted with at least two written and itemized quotes from companies licensed to do the work.  There is more than one way to prevent backflow, so ask the contractors to explain their proposal.  A sewer contractor can do different work than a plumber (some companies can do both.)  A basement waterproofing company usually does not install the types of protection eligible for this grant. 

If the downspouts on your building enter an underground pipe, the program will look at where the pipe goes.  While often the pipe goes to an appropriate location, in some cases the downspout is contributing to basement flooding and will need to be corrected as part of this program.  Making such a correction is eligible for an additional grant. 
The City of Toledo is a partner is a “rain garden” initiative.  Rain gardens offer an option for getting rainwater where you want it.  Rain gardens are planted in a low spot in the yard, collect water that is directed to it, and the plantings use up or soak in the water within 24 hours.  The local initiative promotes the rain gardens to be used to reduce flooding.  Their wide use has been shown to significantly reduce demand on sewer systems during heavy rainfall.  Visit www.raingardeninitiative.org <http://www.raingardeninitiative.org> or call 936-3015 for more info. 

After submitting the application and quotes, the City will review and schedule a home visit.  At that time any remaining issues or questions about the proposed work or causes of flooding will be resolved and eligible work will be approved.  Your questions can be answered at any time by calling (419) 245-1338. Click here for helpful tips and information about basement flooding