Prevent deletion of SharePoint files

ashmelburnian 

I am not an Admin of our SharePoint instance, but I do have the ability to create sub sites. I can’t create my own unique permissions either. I have to work within the defaults I’m provided. I also don’t want the Users deleting their folders on which they can Contribute as all the permissions on the folder go with the folder and it’s a headache to fix - maybe even detrimental depending on what files are lost and the retention policies in place. The “can’t be done” answer is less appealing to me than a slightly tedious solution that works.

One option to consider trying - that works for me - is to:

1.) Place a tiny txt file in the Member (User) [or Group folder] and then as Owner “Do not share” the txt file so it is only visible to the Owner. In other words, the Owner has Full Control on the txt file, and no one else has any access - therefore they don’t even see it in their folder on which they have Contribute permission. Then

2.) Right-click on the txt file as Owner and “Check out” the file.

It’s a bit of a hack, but if the Member with Contribute rights tries to delete the folder either intentionally or by accident (even when appearing empty) they will be told the folder has a file checked out for editing and they can not delete the folder. 

If you have sub folders within the folder you wish retained, then placing this _.txt or do_not_delete.txt file in the sub folder will prevent easy deletion of both the sub folder and (all enclosing) folder(s). The Member’s file actions (i.e., create, rename, delete, etc.) on their own files are otherwise unaffected as only the txt file’s access is impacted.

The obvious downside is this ”fix” takes clicks within each User “Contribute” folder, but depending on the number of Users and folders the Owner has within the site, it may be worth the time spent and help you rest easier knowing the folder‘s aren't easily deleted.

If you have Admin control over the site I imagine you should be able to come up with a better way (i.e., faster and less tedious way) to achieve the same outcome.

ashmelburnian I am also facing this same issue in that I'd like to prevent users from deleting files.  However, it also seems to prevent their being able to move files. 

Could someone please confirm for me those two are also related.  Also, what else might be affected if you do not allow delete? 

Anyone know of a User Voice to vote for this option.  It seems to be a frequent request -- to prevent delete but allow other options. 

Thank you in advance for your help, everyone! 

Hi ashmelburnian,

I don't believe that is possible with out of the box permissions.

Is an additional document library with read only permissions reasonable?

I hope this helps.

Norm