Utilities Kingston is again offering the Preventative Plumbing Program for financial assistance. Together with the Flood Facts public education campaign, these initiatives help residents adopt preventative measures that will reduce the likelihood of sewage backups and basement flooding in their neighbourhoods.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Preventative Plumbing Program had previously been suspended for two years.

Every neighbourhood is at risk of basement flooding, even if it’s never happened before. That’s why we’re pleased to resume this education and financial assistance program.

Financial assistance offered

Homeowners: get up to $3,000 through our 2022 Preventative Plumbing Program. You may use the funds to install sump pumps, backwater sanitary valves and other eligible measures, including disconnecting illegal plumbing connections.

Participants benefit from a free in-home visit that provides advice to reduce the risk of basement flooding. Interested? Visit our Preventative Plumbing Program webpage to find details and an easy-to-use online application, email or call 613-546-0000.

Did you know? Since the Preventative Plumbing Program began in 2012, $4.3 million in financial assistance has helped nearly 2,400 Kingston homeowners, including with the removal of more than 250 illegal connections to the sanitary sewer.

Know your “Flood Facts” to prevent basement flooding

The Flood Facts public education campaign consists of a comprehensive information package (available online), and traditional and social media that offer residents a series of 18 “Flood Facts” that explain how to reduce the likelihood of sewer back-ups in your neighbourhood. These include the following:

• Having a plumber regularly inspect your sewer lateral.
• Disposing of kitchen fats, oils and greases (FOGs) in your Green Bin and not down your drain.
• Checking your sump pump and sanitary backwater valve for proper operation and following the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
• Ensuring your downspouts are clear of debris so water routes safely away.
• Reducing your use of water on rainy days.

For more information, call customer service at 613-546-0000, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.