How long should I retain my closed files in storage?

There is no specific Law Society guidance stating how long a file should be retained in storage.

Firms need to decide how long they wish to store closed files taking into account relevant statutory provisions such as limitation periods and UK Finance mortgage lenders' handbook requirements (where relevant).

In your client care letter, you should advise the client how long you will retain the file and outline what will happen to the file after that time.

You should also advise the client of any costs relating to any of the following:

• storage
• retrieval
• additional copies of papers requested by the client

If you intend to store documents in an electronic format, you should first consider whether the absence of paper documents will be detrimental to the client's interests before you agree such storage methods with your client.

You should also consider any file retention requirements of your professional indemnity insurers when assessing the appropriate length of time to retain files.

For more information, check our practice notes on:

• file retention: wills and probate
• file retention: trusts
• file closure management

For information on retention of client due diligence files, see regulation 40 of the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017.