Looking to Design and Build in a high fire zone?

Understanding Bushfire Attack Levels (BAL)

Bushfires are a common occurrence. A Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) indicates the level of risk a property faces from bushfires. If your property is in a bushfire-prone area, your new home must meet the bushfire construction standards outlined in AS 3959-2009.
Properties located in bushfire-prone regions must undergo a BAL assessment to determine the specific BAL Zone for the site. This assessment helps identify which construction Higher BAL ratings necessitate stricter building requirements. Constructing in high BAL zones can be complex and costly. We recommend obtaining a preliminary BAL rating assessment before purchasing land, potentially making the purchase conditional on a BAL rating.
Trent has experience building in high risk zones and has an understanding of the significant modifications required in materials, design, and house orientation.

BAL (Bushfire attack level)

BAL-LOW (VERY LOW RISK)

The risk is minimal, so specific bushfire construction measures are not required.

BAL-12.5 (LOW RISK)

There is a potential risk of ember attack.

BAL-19 (MODERATE RISK)

There is an increasing risk of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers, with a heat flux between 12.5 and 19 kW/m².

BAL-29 (HIGH RISK)

Risk levels of ember attack and burning debris are higher, with heat flux ranging from 19 to 29 kW/m².

BAL-40 (VERY HIGH RISK)

The risk includes high levels of ember attack and burning debris, a likelihood of exposure to flames, and a heat flux between 29 and 40 kW/m².

BAL-FZ (EXTREME RISK)

There is an extremely high risk of ember attack, burning debris, and direct exposure to flames from the fire front, with a heat flux exceeding 40 kW/m².

Collaborating with Southridge provides you with

Custom design tailored to your requirements
Connection with industry experts and recognized suppliers
Fixed price contracts to avoid unexpected costs during construction
Online client portal for project tracking
Expert support and project management
Dedicated process oversight to ensure timely delivery of your new home or extension
Post-construction support throughout the warranty period