Our homes are protected by Ontario laws. Much of this responsibility lies with municipalities. Where homes are built, what home plans are implemented, and in particular how stormwater is handled, both initially and in the long term to assure infrastructure integrity.

Regulatory agencies (OMAFRA, APEO, MMAH), require municipalities uphold OBC in construction. Subsequently they must protect infrastructure from municipal drainage impact.  When altering the water table near homes, a Geotech engineer is consulted, resulting in an engineering report.

If a municipality chooses to raise marsh levels after maintaining them at a lower level for 25 years, should due diligence must be applied. A city’s can have this focus,  but must still fulfil its duties.

Based on guidelines, the city can measure to assess homes at peak water levels. If necessary, probable risk is confirmed with Monitoring wells. 

When Multiple  homes are involved, a municipality should not suggest individual households engage the services of a soils or structural engineer, where municipal drainage is involved, a city must be proactive. 

OBC guidelines are followed when hoimes are build. If field was originally adjacent to your home but gradually becomes persistent standing water, knowledge of footing depth and simple measurements can tell you if your foundation is at risk.

Habitat's must be planned, not juggled by mayors and councillors to optimize public perceptions, but understood and reviewed by engineers in the building and planning departments.

Beavers will persist, municipalities must take whatever time is required to properly assess. Irreversible damage can otherwise be done.