Saskatoon joins national pilot program ahead of Spring melt

Though it might not feel like it these days, the Spring melt will soon be upon us.

To prepare for the fast melting season, city officials are warning homeowners of a flood protection pilot program that might otherwise go unnoticed.

“Homeowners can register now for a free or partially-subsidized professional home assessment to help identify flood risks through the Home Flood Protection Program,” said Reid Corbett, director of Saskatoon’s water department. “Early action can help homeowners take back control after experiencing loss due to flood damage, and provide some peace of mind for those who are unsure if their home is protected.”

The initiative is co-sponsored by Intact Financial Corporation and SGI Canada to subsidize costs for homeowners looking to be proactive for flood managment.

Home assessments usually costing $450 are available at a reduced rate of $125 and are completed by a national environmental consulting agency. Additionally, up to 100 homes considered to be high-risk flooding areas are eligible for a free home assessment.

Assessments take between an hour and 90 minutes and leave homeowners with a list of measures to mitigate flood damage.

The program was first piloted in Burlington, Ont. last year and is now being expanded for up to 400 Saskatoon fully detached, semi-detached homes or townhouses.

Council approved the pilot program after heavy rainstorms in June and July of 2017 left flooding in its wake and provided the city with feedback from homeowners.

Homeowners interested in the program can register here.