The City of Brantford, Ontario, is urging homeowners to protect their properties from spring flooding as river conditions change this March 2026. The Grand River Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for the area because warming temperatures are melting the snowpack and creating a moderate risk of ice jams in the river.
Public works staff recommend that residents ensure their downspouts are pointing at least two metres, or about six feet, away from the foundation of the house. People should also test their sump pumps and check their backwater valves to make sure they are working properly before the ground thaws completely.
Residents looking to upgrade their home protection can apply for the Basement Flooding Prevention Grant Program. This city program pays for 80 per cent of the cost for improvements such as new sump pumps with battery backups and backwater valves, with a total limit of $5,000 per household.
To qualify for the money, homeowners must first make sure their downspouts are disconnected from the city sewer system. These measures are especially important because standard home insurance often does not cover flooding caused by water coming in from outside the house during heavy storms or rapid snowmelt.
