Because the RS credential is only awarded to professionals with significant experience and adherence to ethical standards, it sets them apart as trusted experts in the field.
A Reserve Specialist is trained to analyze financial data, conduct site inspections, and forecast long-term expenses accurately. This level of precision helps associations avoid financial shortfalls, special assessments, and deferred maintenance issues that can negatively impact property values and homeowner satisfaction.
In Florida, the designation plays a critical role in compliance with the state’ s Structural Integrity Reserve Study( SIRS) and Turnover Studies, which are crucial for condominium and homeowners’ associations. Besides engineers and architects, RS-designated providers can provide SIRS, whereas reserve providers without designation can only provide basic reserve study services.
Achieving the RS designation requires professionals to stay updated on industry trends, financial planning techniques, and reserve study methodologies. This commitment to ongoing education ensures that RS-certified professionals remain knowledgeable about best practices, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.
The intensive learning, comprehensive understanding, and practical knowledge I ' ve gained through this process( of earning my CIRMS) are incomparable and invaluable.
— Doug Dierdorf, MA, CIRMS
Doug Dierdorf, MA, CIRMS Managing Partner | Community Association Practice Leader
earning my CIRMS( Community Insurance Risk Management Specialist) designation from CAI has been one of the most significant advancements in my professional journey. The intensive learning, comprehensive understanding, and practical knowledge I ' ve gained through this process are incomparable and invaluable.
This designation has set me apart in the crowded insurance industry, affirming my commitment and dedication to a rigorously specialized niche— community association insurance. The CIRMS insignia is not merely an alphabet soup addition to my name; it is an emblem of expertise and reliable assurance to my clients that they are dealing with a professional who has robust, industry-recognized qualifications. My clients put their faith in me, entrusting me with their communities ' protection and financial security. My CIRMS designation mirrors my unwavering commitment to this responsibility, encapsulating my comprehensive awareness of the risks involved, and my capability to devise proactive and effective strategies to manage these risks.
Coming from my enthralling experience, I would highly recommend other insurance professionals who aspire to excel in the community association insurance
space to explore the CIRMS designation. It ' s not an easy ride, but it ' s undoubtedly worth it. The rigorous journey refines you as an astute expert in community association insurance and gives you that edge in offering extraordinary value to your clients.
Being a member of CCAL has connected me with a national network of thought leaders in the
community association industry.”
— Donna DiMaggio Berger, Esq., CCAL
Donna DiMaggio Berger, Esq., CCAL
Shareholder, Becker & Poliakoff Vice Chair, Community Association Practice Group, Board Certified Specialist, Condominium and Planned Development Law; Fellow, College of Community Association Lawyers
Being a member of the College of Community Association lawyers( CCAl) since 2006 has been a meaningful milestone in my legal career. It has connected me with a national network of thought leaders in the community association industry, deepened my expertise, and provided opportunities to influence policy and educate others. The collaborative spirit of CCAl has both challenged and inspired me to elevate the standard of service I provide to my clients and the broader community.
40 WWW. CAIWeSTFlORIDA. ORg community • June 2025