Las Vegas – May 1, 2019 – The Restoration Industry Association, Inc. (RIA) and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) announce a strategic partnership to enable each organization to focus on its core mission and which will help elevate knowledge and professionalism within the industry.

In addition to providing an expanding list of rigorous educational programs, RIA hosts trade shows and conferences which highlight the latest technology, industry trends, best business practices, and regulatory developments.

IICRC is the leader for certification programs in the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. And as an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards developer, the Institute’s standards, which are the product of a balanced consensus body and public review, literally set the standard of care for cleaning and remediation.

Both RIA and IICRC understand the necessity to advocate on behalf of the industry in the face of ever-increasing regulation.

Pursuant to their partnership, RIA shall continue to develop its educational programs, but the actual administration of its respected designations shall be done by IICRC. The Institute will be able to offer and market RIA programs not only to RIA members, but to thousands of IICRC certified firms and tens of thousands of IICRC registrants.

Recognizing the benefit of RIA’s trade shows and conferences, the Institute looks forward to continued sponsorship opportunities which will enhance the profile and exposure of IICRC certifications and standards.

In addition, the Institute shall build up the years of work, and thousands of RIA volunteer hours, by forming a consensus body for the BSR/IICRC S700: Standard for Professional Smoke and Fire Restoration. Thanks to this strategic partnership, an ANSI-approved fire standard will be brought to the marketplace.

Finally, leadership from both RIA and IICRC shall form an Industry Advocacy Task Force to identify issues, and the means of addressing such issues, for the mutual benefit of RIA’s and IICRC’s constituency. Advocacy has long been a RIA focus, and RIA welcomes the Institute's involvement and perspective.

This strategic partnership is the product of countless volunteer hours by individuals dedicated to the industry. The resultant agreement recognizes more can be done to move the industry forward when RIA and IICRC support each other in achieving their core missions.

About IICRC
The IICRC is a global, ANSI-accredited Standards Developing Organization (SDO) that credentials individuals in 20+ categories within the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. Representing more than 54,000 certified technicians and 6,000 Certified Firms in 22 countries, the IICRC, in partnership with regional and international trade associations, represents the entire industry. The IICRC does not own schools, employ instructors, produce training materials or promote specific product brands, cleaning methods or systems. For more information, visit www.iicrc.org.

About RIA
The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) is the oldest and largest trade association representing the restoration and reconstruction industry with over 1,100 member firms worldwide. RIA serves and represents the interests of its members by promoting the highest ethical standards; providing education, professional qualification and certification opportunities; positively influencing regulations and governmental actions; and advancing the safety, image, efficiency, and competitiveness of industry members.