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What Are IICRC Certifications?
IICRC stands for Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. For nearly 50 years, IICRC certifications have identified professionals as the top in their field. Whether you want to get work from insurance companies, third party insurance work programs, or simply want the mark of a professional, IICRC certification is what you are looking for.
How to Get Started with IICRC Certifications
There are three key steps to getting started with IICRC certification.
- Choose the IICRC certifications that will prepare you for the type of work you plan to do.
- Book the courses needed for certification. Choose an IICRC-approved school based on years in business, student reviews, and reputation. No one would select a college because it was the closest or cheapest. If this is a career for you, choose the best school to get the best education. Reets Drying Academy has been providing restoration education since 2005. We are the top rated restoration academy in the world with well over 2000 5-star Google Reviews! There is no other school that comes even close to the training you receive at Reets Drying Academy!
- After you complete your training course, pass the IICRC exam for the certification. The IICRC approved school that you are working with will help you register for the needed exam.
The first IICRC certification for most people will be the WRT Water Damage Restoration Technician certification. Get IICRC WRT certified with Reets Drying Academy, the #1 restoration training academy in the world, and be more profitable in as little as 3 days! Book your IICRC WRT course now!
After that, continue with ASD Applied Structural Drying. This takes what you learned in WRT and helps you make an application of the information. You work in the Reets Drying Academy flood house for 3 days. Book your ASD course now!
Or an even better training solution is to do the WRT and ASD certification courses together in one of Reets Drying Academy’s WRT/ASD combo courses. This course gives you access to the flood house for 5 days. It is our most popular choice for getting both certifications. The IICRC WRT/ASD combo certification is perfect for someone thinking of starting a restoration company or looking to advance their career in water restoration Book your WRT/ASD combo course now!
Benefits of Earning IICRC Certifications
IICRC certification is a mark of a professional. IICRC certified technicians have studied the standards for water, fire, and mold damage remediation and proven their understanding through exams.
Companies that have IICRC certified technicians qualify to do restoration work and bill insurance companies.
The key to success in restoration is to do the job right (according to industry standards) and get paid for their work. IICRC certification prepares you to do the job right and get paid for it.
Types of IICRC Certifications
Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT)
If you’re thinking of starting a water damage restoration business, chances are you’ve heard the words IICRC and WRT certification once or twice. What is the IICRC WRT certification?
IICRC WRT stands for Water Damage Restoration Technician. It is Water Restoration 101! IICRC WRT is where you learn the basics of drying. That includes the tools of the trade, drying science, formulas that standardize drying, and even go over some customer service best practices.
At Reets Drying Academy, we mix your education with fun activities that will make retention better. Our exclusive curriculum is a mix of video training, gamification, and lectures. This balance allows the students to actively participate while learning how many of us learn today… by watching a screen! The IICRC WRT Certification is done via livestream. That means you don’t need to send your technicians across the country to get this education. This certification provides a good foundation to make sure they understand what water restoration is all about.
Who should take the IICRC WRT class?
Any person engaged in:
- Water Damage Restoration, both technicians and estimators
- Property Management
- Property Restoration
- IAQ Investigations
How long is the WRT course?
The IICRC WRT course is a 3-day course.
The IICRC has approved this water damage certification course to be presented as a Livestream course. Reets Drying Academy presents this course over Zoom. Reets Drying Academy presents this course multiple times every week at a variety of times and days so there is sure to be one to fit your needs.
What will you be able to do after taking the IICRC WRT course?
Students will be certified to do profitable water damage restoration work. With the IICRC WRT course at Reets Drying Academy, you can apply for insurance program work, dry homes, and dry commercial buildings.
How much do IICRC WRT certifications cost?
After completing the WRT course, IICRC exam costs are $80 per certification.
Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD)
What Is An ASD Certification?
What does ASD stand for? Applied Structural Drying Technician. This certification is going to be the next step in any water restorer’s journey. *Note, you have to have your IICRC WRT certification before taking an IICRC ASD course.
Book your IICRC WRT/ASD Combo. 2 Certifications in 5 days!
What is taught in an ASD course? The IICRC says: “The IICRC-approved Applied Structural Drying (ASD) course is designed to teach the effective, efficient and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents, using comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment. (3-day course; 21 hours, not including exam time, lunch and breaks.)”
The ASD is where you really get into the nitty-gritty. While there is classroom instruction, in the ASD course, you work in a real flood house! We flood the house, and you dry it out using what you learn in class. You use drying equipment to put into practice what you’ve been learning.
The Hands-On ASD course makes an amazing impact on your ability to process jobs in the field. We have all gone on YouTube to learn how to fix something. But when you try to do what you just learned from that video, you realize you missed some points, so you go back and learn while you do the repair. The IICRC ASD courses at Reets Drying Academy give you that opportunity to learn and practice in our flood house while our instructors coach you to expert status!
Who should take the IICRC ASD class?
Any person engaged in:
- Water Damage Restoration, both technicians and estimators
- Property Management
- Property Restoration
- IAQ Investigations
It is important to note that the IICRC WRT certification is a prerequisite for taking the ASD course.
How long is the ASD course?
The IICRC ASD course is a 3-day course.
The IICRC has approved this water damage certification course to be taken in person only. There are no approved IICRC ASD Livestream courses.
What will you be able to do after taking the IICRC ASD course?
Students will be certified to do profitable water damage restoration work. With the IICRC ASD course at Reets Drying Academy, you will be qualified to apply for insurance program work, dry homes, and dry commercial buildings.
Ready To Take Your First Steps?
Now that we know what the IICRC ASD certification means, are you ready to start your path as a restorer? Do you have technicians working for you who need training and certification? Then we’ve got you covered.
Reets Drying Academy is the top-rated IICRC-approved school, and we offer ASD courses regularly.
If you already have WRT certification, you can book one of our ASD courses right now!
The premium water restoration course we offer is actually a combination of the WRT course and ASD course in 5 days. It’s a great opportunity to get two critical certifications in less time than it would take to do both separately.
Spend 5 days in the classroom and flood house and earn both the WRT and ASD certifications in one week in our “Combo” course. Book the “Combo” course now!
How much do IICRC ASD certifications cost?
After completing the necessary course, IICRC exam costs are $80 per certification.
Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT)
The IICRC FSRT certification was designed for restoration professionals who are serious about fire and smoke cleanup. If you are interested in starting a fire restoration business or you are already in the business but recognize that now is the time to get certified, IICRC FSRT at Reets Drying Academy is the course for you. Book now!
The Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (IICRC FSRT) certification equips you with the knowledge and skills to handle fire and smoke restoration tasks. It covers scoping, mitigation, cleaning, deodorization, subrogation, spoliation, and documentation of residential and commercial fire and smoke-damaged structures and contents. By obtaining this certification, you demonstrate your readiness to perform and document the cleaning and deodorization of typical residential or commercial fire and smoke damage projects.
Who should take the IICRC FSRT class?
Any person engaged in:
- Fire Damage Restoration, both technicians and estimators
- Starting a Fire Restoration Business
- Property Management
- Property Restoration
How long is the FSRT course?
The IICRC FSRT course is a 2-day course.
The IICRC has approved this water damage certification course to be presented as FSRT in-person and FSRT Livestream courses.
What will you be able to do after taking the IICRC FSRT course?
Students will be certified to do profitable fire damage restoration work. With the IICRC FSRT course at Reets Drying Academy, you will be qualified to apply for insurance program work, clean up fire-damaged homes, and clean up fire-damaged commercial buildings.
Book your IICRC FSRT course at Reets Drying Academy!
How much do IICRC FSRT certifications cost?
After completing the FSRT course, IICRC exam costs are $80 per certification.
Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT)
The IICRC Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) certification is designed for professionals in the cleaning and restoration industry who want to master the art and science of carpet cleaning. This certification emphasizes practical knowledge and skills that are essential for maintaining and cleaning installed broadloom carpets effectively.
During the course, participants gain an in-depth understanding of carpet fibers, yarns, constructions, and styles, along with their finishes and unique characteristics. It also covers common soiling conditions, cleaning science, and effective methodologies to address real-world challenges faced by carpet cleaning professionals.
Achieving CCT certification signifies that you have demonstrated the ability to perform a variety of carpet cleaning techniques and procedures. This includes conducting pre-inspections, identifying fabrics, selecting and using cleaning chemicals and equipment appropriately, and applying proper cleaning methods. The training places a strong emphasis on residential and light commercial carpet cleaning applications.
For anyone seeking to enhance their expertise in carpet cleaning and deliver exceptional results to clients, the IICRC CCT certification is a valuable credential to add to your professional toolkit.
Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT)
The IICRC Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT) certification equips cleaning professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to clean a wide variety of upholstered furniture and fabrics effectively. This certification focuses on the unique challenges of maintaining and restoring upholstered materials, ensuring technicians can deliver professional results.
Participants in the UFT course learn how to identify different fabric types, constructions, and finishes, as well as assess potential cleaning challenges. The course covers essential topics such as proper cleaning techniques, the selection and application of cleaning agents, and the use of specialized equipment. Additionally, it emphasizes how to address common issues like soiling, staining, and wear, with a focus on preserving the integrity and appearance of the material.
Achieving the UFT certification demonstrates your ability to inspect and clean upholstery and fabrics safely and effectively, ensuring high-quality results for residential and commercial clients. With this training, you’ll be prepared to handle everything from delicate materials to heavily soiled furniture confidently.
Whether you’re a seasoned cleaning professional or new to the field, the IICRC UFT certification is an excellent way to expand your expertise and offer specialized upholstery and fabric cleaning services.
Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)
When doing water restoration, you will come into contact with microbial/mold growth. Depending on where you live, you probably come across it possibly daily. What IICRC certification is needed to do mold remediation?
IICRC AMRT certification!
(AMRT Certification stands for: “Applied Microbial Remediation Technician”, and is often referred to as the “mold certification”.)
What is taught in the IICRC AMRT course at Reets Drying Academy?
Course attendees will learn mold and sewage remediation techniques that can be applied in the field. Upon completing the course and passing the exam, they will be able to perform remediation services while protecting the health and safety of workers and occupants. Additionally, this IICRC certification may help secure insurance work, residential mold remediation and may reduce liability insurance costs for contractors. Book your IICRC AMRT course now!
Who should take this class?
Any person engaged in:
- Water Damage Restoration, both technicians and estimators
- Property Management
- Property Restoration
- IAQ Investigations
How long is the AMRT course?
The AMRT course is a 4-day course (28 hours, not including exam time, lunch, and breaks).
The IICRC has approved this mold certification course to be taken in person only. There are no approved IICRC AMRT Livestream courses.
What will you be able to do after taking the IICRC AMRT course?
Students will be certified to do mold remediation and sewerage cleanup work. With the IICRC AMRT course at Reets Drying Academy, you will be qualified to apply for insurance program work, remediate mold in homes, and remediate mold in commercial buildings.
Attend an IICRC approved AMRT course at Reets Drying Academy.
Health and Safety Technician (HST)
What is IICRC HST certification?
The IICRC Health and Safety Technician (HST) certification is a game-changer for professionals seeking to enhance workplace safety and minimize risks across various industries. Designed to provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills, this certification empowers individuals to effectively identify, assess, and mitigate hazards.
At its core, the HST program focuses on occupational health and safety principles within the context of the Global Harmonized System (GHS). It dives deep into critical areas such as cleaning, maintenance, and restoration, equipping technicians with expertise tailored to their industries.
What HST Certification Offers
HST-certified professionals master the application of engineering and administrative controls, sound work practices, and the selection and use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). A cornerstone of the program is hazard and risk assessments—an essential tool for implementing effective strategies to prevent accidents and health risks.
By understanding the hierarchy of controls, HSTs learn to prioritize hazard elimination, reduction, and control methods that go beyond compliance. This ensures safer environments and cultivates a proactive approach to health and safety.
Why Pursue HST Certification?
Achieving the HST certification signifies more than technical proficiency. It demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding lives, preventing workplace injuries and illnesses, and fostering a culture where health and safety are integral to operations.
With this certification, professionals position themselves as leaders in creating secure and efficient workspaces, proving the value of a strong safety foundation in any industry.
Ready to make a difference in workplace safety? The IICRC HST certification could be your next step toward a safer, healthier future. Book your IICRC HST course at Reets Drying Academy now!
Help Managing Your Safety and Health Program
We all want our people to work safely. The last thing we want is for part of our team to be injured in the workplace. Additionally, governmental regulations are in place to improve workplace safety. We are here to help.
The Reets Drying Academy Safety Management System provides the training and documentation that you need to build a culture of safety and meet regulatory requirements. Our system helps you to manage the compliance of each person on your staff with the training they need.
Call us today at 770-712-7293 for more information on how to implement this restoration safety program.
Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS)
What is the IICRC Commercial Drying Specialist (IICRC CDS) course?
If you are considering providing drying services for commercial properties, you need to attend the IICRC CDS course. It gets you ready to handle the logistics of commercial drying.
The Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) certification equips individuals with expertise in damage inspection and evaluation, workflow management, process administration, and effective and timely drying techniques for commercial, industrial, institutional, and complex residential water-damaged structures, systems, furniture, fixtures, and equipment. This certification is ideal for experienced technicians, project managers, estimators, or owners/managers seeking to enhance their understanding of commercial construction, commercial drying practices, challenges, and opportunities or to acquire improved project management skills.
Who should take the IICRC CDS class?
Any person engaged in:
- Water Damage Restoration, both technicians and estimators
- Companies looking to expand into drying commercial buildings
- Property Management
- Property Restoration
How long is the IICRC CDS course?
The CDS course is a 4-day course.
The IICRC has approved this commercial drying certification course to be presented as Livestream courses.
What will you be able to do after taking the IICRC CDS course?
Students will be certified to do commercial water damage cleanup and drying work. With the IICRC CDS course at Reets Drying Academy you will be qualified to apply for insurance program work and drying water damage in commercial buildings. Book IICRC CDS and Reets Drying Academy now!
Here are the IICRC Certifications to become a Master Water Restorer
#1 IICRC WRT (Water Restoration Technician):
You can take this class via livestream or in-person. This class teaches the basics of water restoration. By the end of class, you should be able to identify the various equipment, tools and meters used in water restoration. You will discuss the science of drying to understand what and why you are drying. This class is a prerequisite for many other courses along the path. So, start here!
#2 IICRC ASD (Applied Structural Drying Technician):
IICRC ASD can only be taken in person because there are hands on aspects to the class. The key term for this class is Applied. Whereas IICRC WRT teaches the basics of water restoration, IICRC ASD teaches you how to accomplish your drying goals in different real-world situations. This course can be taken as a 3 day course on its own. But, many choose to take the 5 day IICRC WRT/ASD combo course.
#3 IICRC AMRT (Applied Microbial Remediation Technician):
You can only take this class in-person. IICRC AMRT covers microbial growth as well as cleaning category 3 losses. You will get into the microbiology of mold spores and other viruses to learn how you can safely handle the project for you and the property owners.
#4 IICRC HST (Health and Safety Technician):
You can take IICRC HST via livestream or in person. It covers the OSHA regulations that help keep you and your fellow employees safe. This is an important course for your master’s designation but also your LIFE!
#5 IICRC CCT (Carpet Cleaning Technician) or IICRC CCMT (Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician):
You can take IICRC CCT via livestream or in person. This course is about carpet cleaning….. say less. If you clean carpets for a living, this is the course for you.
#6 IICRC RRT (Carpet Repair Reinstallation Technician):
You can take RRT via livestream or in person. This class will assist you in repairing or plugging carpets like a pro. If you get really good, no one will be able to tell!
If you would like to be a journeyman Water Restorer (JSR), you will need to be IICRC Certified for a minimum of 12 months.
Here are the IICRC Certifications to become a Master Fire Restorer
#1 IICRC FSRT (Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician): This course can taken via livestream or in person. This course will train technicians how to clean the remaining particles left after a fire.
The course at Reets Drying Academy also brings in fire science and health and safety aspects for a complete overview of fire damage remediation. Fire damage remediation is one of the most dangerous things we do. Read this article for information on the potential hazards of particles of incomplete combustion.
#2 IICRC OCT (Odor Control Technician): You can take IICRC OCT in person or via livestream. This course is offered in conjunction with IICRC FSRT. It focuses on how to eliminate or reduce odors. This is a large part of customer service and completing a project adequately.
#3 IICRC UFT (Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician): You can take IICRC UFT via livestream or in person. There are so many different fabrics, and there are different cleaning options and challenges for each.
#4 IICRC HST (Health and Safety Technician): You can take IICRC HST via livestream or in person. It covers the OSHA regulations that help keep you and your fellow employees safe. This is an important course for your master’s designation but also your LIFE!
#5IICRC CCT (Carpet Cleaning Technician) or IICRC CCMT (Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician): See above.
To become a Journeyman Fire and Smoke Restorer (JSR), you must be IICRC Certified for a minimum of 12 months.
Check out our course calendar to book a class!
Here are the IICRC Certifications to become a TRIPLE MASTER and get that shiny gold card ⭐️
#1 IICRC WRT
#3 IICRC AMRT
#4 IICRC FSRT
#5 IICRC OCT
#7 IICRC UFT
#8 IICRC CRT
#9 IICRC HST
#10 IICRC RRT
To obtain the triple master designation, you must be IICRC Certified for a minimum of 3 years
Some courses have prerequisite classes, as noted. However, there is no particular order in which classes must be taken.
A list of courses that Reets Drying Academy offers can be found here:
Classroom/hands-on: https://reetsdryingacademy.com/inperson-classroom-training/
Livestream: https://reetsdryingacademy.com/livestream/
Or Call 770-712-7293
Let us know how we can help you on your journey to becoming IICRC Master Certified today!
If you need a course that we don’t have on the website, give us a call anyway. We can point you in the right direction or recommend an IICRC approved Instructor or School to find your course!
Conclusion
Reets Drying Academy is the most trusted school for getting your IICRC certifications. If you are currently a professional in the property cleaning or restoration industry, IICRC certifications are a key step in the growth of your career, and Reets Drying Academy is how you get there.
If you are considering starting a new water, fire, or mold cleanup business, IICRC certification is a must for your first step. You will learn how to do the job right and get paid for it.
IICRC certified firms and technicians are prepared to restore projects where fire, water or mold has damaged properties according to industry standards and bill insurance companies for the work.
IICRC certification is the mark of a professional in the cleaning and restoration industry.
Nick Sharp
Nick Sharp has worked with Jeremy Reets for nearly 2 decades. He started in carpet cleaning and mitigation before moving to the construction side as a project manager. He then was the senior estimator for Champion Construction for over 8 years. Since its inception in 2015, Nick has been an instructor of our Restoration Estimating & Negotiating course. His most recent venture is as a restoration estimate consultant. Nick is an Xactware Certified Trainer and also has his Levels 1-3 Xactimate Certifications. He’s a bad boy on that sketch but better at finding where you may be losing money!
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