Structural Integrity Reserve Studies (SIRS)
What is a Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS)?
In 2022, Florida’s legislature introduced Senate Bill D-4: Building Safety https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2022D/4D), which requires that all buildings 3 stories or taller conduct an engineering assessment to evaluate the current condition of the building and predict its future maintenance and repair needs.
The study includes a non-invasive visual inspection of the structural elements and systems of the building, such as the foundation, roof, walls, mechanical and electrical systems, and other components that may require maintenance or replacement over time to determine their estimated remaining useful life.
What is the purpose of a Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS)?
The goal of the study is to help property owners, managers, and community associations reserve fund planning in Florida for the necessary repairs and replacements in advance. Condominium reserve studies in Florida are particularly important for community associations and homeowner associations that are responsible for the maintenance and repair of common areas and shared amenities. x
What is considered a Healthy Condo reserve in Florida?
The goal of a healthy condo reserve fund is to ensure that the community has the financial resources to cover the costs of ongoing maintenance and repairs, which helps to protect property values and maintain the quality of life for residents.
Building Mavens recommends that a condo association should aim to have a reserve fund that is at least 70% funded of its total estimated reserve obligations. This means that the reserve fund should be able to cover 70% of the projected cost of all necessary repairs and replacements over the next 30 years.
When must a Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS) be performed?
A condominium owner’s association must complete a SIRS at least every 10 years after the condominium’s creation for each building on the condominium property that is 3 stories or more.
For unit owner-controlled associations, the initial study is due by December 31, 2024, and also at turnover (transition of control) from developer to unit owners.
Failure to obtain a Structural Integrity Reserve Study is a breach of the officers’ and directors’ fiduciary relationship to the unit owners.
Who can perform a Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS) in Florida?
Only Professional Engineers licensed in the State of Florida may perform a SIRS and submit the necessary report. The SIRS report typically includes an inventory of the building's components, their useful life expectancy, their current condition, and estimated repair or replacement costs. The report includes recommendations for prioritizing repairs and replacements and for funding the necessary reserve account to cover the costs.
Whether you are a property owner, manager, or community association, Building Mavens’ licensed professionals are available to cover your Florida Structural Integrity Reserve Study Service’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Senate Bill SB 4-D?
Passed by the Florida Senate on May 25, 2022, the Building Safety bill primarily addresses mandatory structural inspections and reserves for condominiums and cooperatives with buildings 3 stories or more.
What is a Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS)?
As required by Florida Statutes for Condominiums - 718.112(2)(g), a Structural integrity reserve study is a study of the reserve funds required for future major repairs and replacement of the common areas of all condominium buildings 3 stories or higher, based on a visual inspection of the common areas.