How do I find my bal rating?
There are 6 main steps to performing a BAL.
- Determine your Fire Danger Index (FDI)
- Determine your site’s vegetation.
- Determine the distance from the site to the vegetation in question.
- Determine the slope of the land under the vegetation.
- Determine the BAL.
How do I reduce my bal rating?
Depending on the outcomes of your BAL assessment, building construction standards can be increased to meet the requirements of your assessed BAL. Alternatively, vegetation modification surrounding the allotment/dwelling can be undertaken to reduce the BAL and consequent exposure level during a bushfire.
What does bush fire prone land mean?
Bush fire prone land (BFPL) is land that has been identified by local council which can support a bush fire or is subject to bush fire attack.
Can I do my own bal assessment?
Can I arrange my own BAL assessment? While you are encouraged to use the information provided, you can engage an accredited consultant to prepare an independent assessment. The assessments would still need to be referred to the CFA.
How much does a bal report cost?
The fee for a BAL certificate is $400.
Do I need a bal for a shed?
If your property is within, or even partially, within this designation, then you may need to get a BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) Assessment. This would need to be handed in with your Building Application. Depending on the rating you are assigned, it could add little or significant cost to your shed to make it compliant.
What is vegetation buffer in bushfire prone land?
Land that directly adjoins bushland is also classified as ‘Vegetation Buffer 100m & 30m’ (coloured red). These are the areas in which developments and people are most likely to be affected by a bushfire burning in the adjacent land.
Does home and contents insurance cover bushfires?
Does my home insurance cover bushfires? Most standard home and contents insurance policies will offer cover for fires, including bushfires. This means you could receive a payout up to your sum insured to help with repairs and restoration, should your home get damaged or destroyed by bushfires.
Can you build in an APZ?
An APZ may be used as a yard or garden, and with approval, you may be able to construct a pool, barbeque shelter or pergola, shed, carport, or other non-combustible and non-habitable structure.
What is a bal fire rating?
A Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) is a means of measuring the severity of a building’s potential exposure to ember attack, radiant heat and direct flame contact. It’s measured in increments of radiant heat (expressed in kilowatts/m2). The image below shows the various BAL ratings and the radiant heat flux for each rating.
Who decides on Bal rating?
BAL rating checklist Get a BAL assessment for your building site. This must be done by a qualified consultant who will assess the site and provide instructions so the build can be designed and constructed in accordance with Standard (AS) 3959 – 2009 Construction of buildings in bushfire prone areas.