Retention of Documents Policy

 

RETENTION OF DOCUMENTS AND RECORDS POLICY 

 

This policy details the minimum retention time required for Council documents before disposal in order for the council to comply with the Freedom of Information Act 2000 Publication Scheme. Where variable times are indicated the Council will review storage after the minimum period has elapsed.  This document has been compiled using NALC Legal Topic Note 40. 

 

 

Document 

 

Minimum Period 

 

Reason 

 

Minute Books 

Indefinite 

Archive 

Scale of fees and charges 

6 years 

Management 

Receipt and payment account(s) 

Indefinite 

Archive 

Receipt books of all kinds 

6 years 

VAT 

Bank statements, including deposit/savings accounts 

Last completed audit year 

Audit 

Bank paying-in books 

Last completed audit year 

Audit 

Cheque book stubs 

Last completed audit year 

Audit 

Quotations and tenders 

6 years 

Limitation Act 1980 (as amended) 

Paid invoices 

6 years 

VAT 

Paid cheques 

6 years 

Limitation act 1980 (as amended) 

VAT records 

6 years generally but 20 years for VAT on rents 

VAT 

Petty cash, postage and telephone books 

6 years 

Tax, VAT, Limitation Act 1980 (as amended) 

Timesheets 

Last completed audit year 

3 years 

Audit (requirement) 

Personal injury (best practice) 

Wages books 

12 years 

Superannuation 

Insurance policies 

While valid 

Management 

Certificates for Insurance against liability for employees 

40 years from date of which insurance commenced or was renewed 

The Employer’s Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Regulations 1998 (SI. 2753), Management 

Investments 

Indefinite 

Audit, Management 

Title deeds, leases, agreements, contracts 

Indefinite 

Audit, Management 

Members allowances register 

6 years 

Tax, Limitation Act 1980 (as amended) 

Re: Halls, Centre, Recreation Grounds 

  • Application to hire 

  • Lettings diaries 

  • Copies of bills to hire 

  • Record of tickets issued 

6 years 

VAT 

Re: Allotments 

  • Register and plans 

Indefinite 

Audit, Management 

 

Last Reviewed June 2024