I’ve Got My BAL Rating—Now What?

Receiving your Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating is a critical milestone in the planning and development process—but it’s not the finish line. Understanding what comes next is key to staying compliant, on budget, and on schedule.

What to Do After Your BAL Rating

Once your BAL rating is confirmed, here’s what you should prioritise:

✅ Update Your Building Plans
Your construction drawings need to reflect the determined BAL Rating (see below). The plans will also then need to be updated to reflect relevant upgrades determined by your BAL to materials and design elements like windows, doors, roof spaces, and vents that comply with AS 3959 – Construction of Buildings in Bushfire-Prone Areas.

✅ Engage the Right Builder
Ensure your builder is not only aware of your BAL requirements but also experienced in meeting the relevant bushfire construction standards.

✅ Plan for Cost Implications
Higher BAL levels often mean higher construction costs. Factoring this in early—particularly for glazing, seals, and ember protection—can prevent financial surprises later on.

✅ Coordinate Your Documentation
Before submitting plans to council or your building certifier, make sure all documents reflect the BAL upgrades. This avoids unnecessary delays in approvals and construction.

Avoid a Common Mistake

A frequent pitfall? Builders quoting from early or outdated plans that don’t incorporate BAL compliance. This can lead to budget shocks and unnecessary redesigns.

At Bushfire Smart, we guide you from assessment through to final design compliance—ensuring your build meets BAL requirements from the outset.

Need Support?

Not sure how your BAL rating impacts your build? Send through your current plans or get in touch—we’ll talk you through the next steps.