Bushfire Shutters in the Blue Mountains

CSIRO's Bushfire best practice guide says non-combustible shutters protect against flame contact, embers and strikes from flying objects, and that a shutter system should fit tightly, with gaps under 2mm. It makes no claim that a shutter makes a house safe or compliant. In NSW, building or trade work valued at more than A$5,000 in labour and materials, including GST, needs a contractor licence; NSW lists no category for shutters, so ask whoever quotes which licence the work is done under.

What bushfire shutters in the Blue Mountains actually involves

Shutters made of non-combustible material give protection from flame contact, embers and flying objects. A shutter system should be tight fitting, with gaps under 2mm, to keep embers out, and it should be made from non-combustible material.

A close view of metal shutter slats running in a side channel — bushfire shutters, Blue Mountains. Illustrative example.

What to ask

The licence line comes from the NSW Government: a contractor licence is needed to carry out, advertise or contract for building or trade work valued above A$5,000 in labour and materials, GST included. NSW's category list names no shutter category, so this page names none: ask whoever quotes.

Ask what the shutters are made of, how they fit the opening, and whether they close by hand or by motor.

A flat illustration of a window with a metal shutter half lowered — bushfire shutters, Blue Mountains. Illustrative example.

Check which rules apply to your job