Should an architecture firm keep the project records for the statute of limitation period, or the statute of repose?
Hi @xinruizhang, thanks for your question!
Each firm may have their own policy surrounding this, but project records should be retained for at least the statute of repose or statute of limitation - some even suggest keeping them beyond these periods, or even permanently. With digital storage capacities these days, it’s more common to keep records indefinitely or for an extended time.
At the previous firm I worked at, we had many repeat clients spanning over several decades. Having their previous project files on hand in our database was helpful for a variety of reasons (i.e. future renovations). I often found myself referencing drawing sets from 20-30 years prior.
Note that there could also be jurisdiction requirements - for example, architects in Oregon must retain project records for a minimum of 10 years (statute of repose) following the completion of the project.
Hope this helps!
Kiara Galicinao, AIA, NCARB
Black Spectacles
Thank you for your explanation! I understand that in real practice it varies, but for the test (this is not real test question), which answer should be correct answer in these three options: A) statute of repose, B) statute of limition, C) indefinitely ? (Or you think this question will not show up in the test?)
@xinruizhang This question is unlikely to show up on the exam, at least in this exact way, ,as the ARE doesn’t expect you to simply memorize pieces of information. This issue would also vary by jurisdiction and NCARB tests you on general information that is applicable to all (unless specified in a scenario or reference).
If this specific question did come up with no other context, I recommend you go with the statute of repose, which is typically 10 years.
Kiara