We understand that navigating the world of financial support can be overwhelming, so we have gathered comprehensive information and resources to help you explore the various programs designed to assist individuals and families in Kingston with their financial needs.
From government initiatives to community-based organizations, Kingston offers a diverse array of financial assistance options.
Our goal is to provide you with a one-stop resource where you can find detailed information about the eligibility criteria, application processes, and benefits of each program. We aim to empower you with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and access the financial support you deserve.The City of Kingston approved a financial assistance program administered by Utilities Kingston on January 10, 2012. The program aims to provide financial support to homeowners undertaking work on their homes to reduce the risk of sewage backups and extraneous flow into the sanitary sewer system.
Sewage backups often occur during rapid snow melt or heavy rainfall. The program covers specific works related to sewage backup prevention, such as the installation of backwater sewer valves, sump pumps with battery backup, and the capping or disconnection of weeping tile connections.
Financial assistance is provided at fixed percentages of eligible costs, up to predetermined maximum amounts. The program offers a maximum financial assistance amount of $3,000 per home.
- The home must be located in the City of Kingston, within the area serviced by Utilities Kingston and the home must have an active water and sewer account in good standing with Utilities Kingston.
- The home is a single family detached, semi-detached, row-house, duplex or triplex.
- The applicant is the owner of the home.
- Work must be completed by qualified contractors licensed by the City of Kingston where required
- A plumber licensed by the City of Kingston must be hired to install a backwater valve.
- A qualified contractor in the City of Kingston must be hired to install a sump pump system and for capping the foundation drain.
- Contractor(s) must use materials or fittings that are approved by the Ontario Building Code.
- Each owner shall acquire any required Permit(s) for the completion of eligible works.
- At the completion of the program, to be eligible for financial assistance, the home’s downspouts and foundation drainage must be fully compliant with City Bylaw 2008-192, Clauses 3.8-3.11, and not be capable of discharging to the sanitary sewer.
- Invoice(s) must be originals and show clear and detailed breakdown of all charges to indicate those items that qualify for financial assistance and those that do not, total amount paid and clearly marked PAID IN FULL by the Contractor(s).
- Work must be completed within the calendar year for which the application was made.
- Funding for eligible work is subject to available budget, first-come, and first-served.
- Any single owner may only apply for improvements to two buildings maximum per calendar year.
The Kingston-Frontenac Renovates Program (KFRP) provides eligible homeowners with forgivable loans of up to $15,000 to address emergency repairs and enhance accessibility in their homes.
For projects aimed at improving accessibility, a grant of up to $5,000 is available.
The program offers loan forgiveness over a period of ten years. If the homeowner remains in the residence for the entire ten-year period, the loan is completely forgiven.
This program includes services such as Septic System, Water Quality, and Well Drilling.
This program can really take the burden off of homeowners requiring more extensive, and therefore, expensive, repairs.
The eligibility checklist for this grant is rather extensive, here are some of the requirements:
- The home must be owned by the applicant(s).
- The home must be located within the City of Kingston or Frontenac County.
- The home must be at least ten (10) years old (unless the application is for ‘accessibility’ purposes only, in which case there is no age limitation for the home).
- The value of the home must be at or below the maximum house value as determined by the Service Manager.
- The Homeowner(s) must not have a mortgage that is in default.
- Property taxes on the subject property must be paid in full.
A full list of the requirements can be found hereThe Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) is a province-wide initiative that provides eligible low-income households with ongoing monthly credits to help reduce their electricity bills. While not specifically targeting plumbing repairs or services, this program indirectly assists homeowners by relieving some financial strain, allowing them to allocate their funds towards plumbing repairs or upgrades.If we’re missing a financial program related to plumbing in Kingston and the surrounding area, please fill out the form below and we’ll update this immediately!