BAL Assessments

If you’re building or renovating in a Bushfire Prone Area (BPA), you’ll need a BAL Assessment.

BAL assessments are a legal requirement in Victoria and determine the construction standards your project must follow under AS 3959:2018 – Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas.

At Collard Bushfire and Environmental, we deliver precise BAL reports to help landowners, builders, and developers meet compliance while ensuring homes and assets are more resilient to bushfire risks.

Check if your property is in a BPA (VicPlan)

What is a BAL?

BAL measures ember attack, radiant heat, and flame exposure at a specific building site. Your BAL rating determines the construction requirements for your project.

BAL-LOW

Minimal risk – no special construction requirements

BAL-12.5

Low risk – must withstand ember attack

BAL-19

Moderate risk – ember & radiant heat protection

BAL-29

High risk – strong radiant heat protection

BAL-40

Very high risk – address potential flame contact

BAL-FZ

Extreme risk – must withstand direct flame exposure

Note: In a BPA, the minimum construction standard is BAL-12.5.

Our BAL Services

  • Comprehensive BAL Assessments in line with AS 3959:2018
  • Bushfire Hazard Site & Landscape Assessments for permits
  • Construction Advice – design to the correct BAL rating
  • BAL Reports for Planning & Insurance compliance
  • Support for Tiny Homes, Subdivisions & Caravan Parks

Example Projects

  • BAL reports for new home builds
  • Compliance for tiny homes & relocatable dwellings
  • Caravan park fire safety upgrades
  • Insurance-driven BAL re-assessments post-fire

Why It Matters

  • Mandatory Compliance: Required in BPA zones
  • Safety & Resilience: Structures withstand bushfire conditions
  • Cost Control: Avoid over/under engineering
  • Insurance & Value: Compliance supports insurance & resale

Why Choose Us?

Proven expertise, trusted by clients across Victoria and nationally

25+ Years’ Experience

Decades of bushfire, land, and environmental management expertise.

Advanced GIS Technology

We combine practical fieldwork with cutting-edge mapping tools.

Tailored Solutions

Outputs customised for compliance, planning, and operational needs.

Trusted Nationwide

Developers, councils, and landholders rely on us across Australia.

Ready to work together?

Contact us today to book your BAL Assessment and ensure safe, compliant building in a Bushfire Prone Area.