Part 1: What is a Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS) — and Why It Matters for Your Condo
A friendly guide to understanding the new SIRS requirement under Florida law.
If you serve on a condo board (or own a unit) in Florida, you’ve probably heard the term “Structural Integrity Reserve Study” or “SIRS” floating around lately. It may sound technical — but at its heart, it’s about one thing: making sure our building remains safe and financially prepared for big-ticket repairs and replacements. Here’s what every condo association and board member should know.
What is a SIRS?
A Structural Integrity Reserve Study is a specialized reserve study that focuses on key structural, safety, and life-safety components of a condominium building. It combines an engineering review (typically a visual inspection) with a financial forecast of what major future repairs or replacements will cost, and when they’ll be needed.
Why Did Florida Adopt It?
After the tragic Surfside condominium collapse, Florida lawmakers recognized that many older buildings were underfunded for structural repairs. The new laws now require associations with three-story or taller buildings to complete a SIRS every 10 years. The goal is simple: avoid surprise repair bills and underfunded reserves that put safety at risk.
Key Components a SIRS Must Cover
A compliant SIRS includes at least these items:
Roofs
Structural systems (load-bearing walls, foundations)
Fireproofing and fire protection systems
Plumbing and electrical systems related to structure
Waterproofing, exterior painting, windows, and doors affecting structure
Any other items whose failure could compromise building integrity
How a SIRS Differs from a Regular Reserve Study
Traditional reserve studies estimate costs for all shared assets — pools, elevators, landscaping. The SIRS focuses only on the critical items that ensure your building’s structural integrity and safety, and the law requires these reserves to be properly funded without waiver.
Key Takeaways for Boards
Applies to buildings three or more stories high.
Must be completed by December 31, 2025, for most existing associations.
Must be redone every 10 years.
Boards that ignore the requirement risk noncompliance and liability exposure.
Up next: In Part 2, we’ll take a step by step look at how the SIRS process works.
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Kennedy Association Management provides guidance, project coordination, and trusted professional resources to help your community meet state requirements while protecting your owners and property values.
