Questions Every Client Should Ask Their Building Designer
Living on the Sunshine Coast means enjoying a beautiful lifestyle — but it also means facing the risks of bushfires, floods, storms, and coastal weather. A resilient home doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of smart decisions made during the design stage.
As a client, you don’t need to know every technical detail, but you do need to ask the right questions. Here’s a simple checklist to take into your first meeting with your building designer.
Flood & Drainage
Water is one of the biggest threats to any home, especially in heavy storms or flash floods. Ask your designer:
How will water drain away from the house?
What stormwater systems will be included?
Are the gutters and downpipes big enough for heavy rain?
Will gutter guards be added to stop blockages?
Bushfire Preparedness
Bushfires are a real risk on the Sunshine Coast. Designing for them means planning for embers, heat, and landscaping. Ask:
What is my property’s BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating?
What fire-resistant materials will you use?
Will windows and doors be sealed to stop embers?
How will landscaping reduce fire risk?
Can sprinklers or water storage be added?
Coastal Durability
For homes near the ocean, corrosion is just as big a risk as fire. Salt and sea spray eat away at materials if the wrong ones are used. Ask:
How will you prevent corrosion from salt?
Will stainless steel or marine-grade materials be included?
Are there low-maintenance alternatives to timber?
Storm & High Wind Protection
Strong winds and cyclones can damage roofs, windows, and doors. A well-designed structure keeps your home secure. Ask:
How will the roof and walls be reinforced?
Can the windows handle flying debris?
How will doors be protected from heavy rain?
Backup & Safety Systems
When disasters strike, power and water often fail. Smart homes prepare for this. Ask:
Will the home have water storage for emergencies?
Can we add backup power like a generator or solar battery?
How will ventilation work if there’s smoke outside?
Site Planning
Every block of land is different. A thoughtful design considers the natural risks of the site. Ask:
Have you checked the land’s flood/fire history?
How will the home be positioned to avoid risks?
How will the design balance lifestyle with safety?
Final Word
Resilient homes don’t just happen — they’re designed. By asking these questions, you’ll make sure your building designer thinks about more than just looks.
At Gold Leaf Constructions, we work with designers and clients from the very beginning to ensure every home is both stunning and strong enough to withstand the Sunshine Coast’s conditions.
Ready to design a home that’s built to last? Contact us today to start planning your 2026 build.
In our Nature vs Home mini-series, we explore how floods, fires, and storms have shaped building practices on the Sunshine Coast — and the practical steps homeowners can take to prepare. Watch the episode below