>> Our firm (midsize engineering firm in the Pacific NW, US) has a flat retention policy for project files of 10 years after close of project<<

I would consider where your firm does business.  I know of a number of jurisdictions where the Limitation-of-Action for engineering work is longer than 10 years.  For some types of work it can be much longer.  

I would also check the requirements related to seals and certifications.  While ESign and UETA provide that electronic documents have the same evidentiary value as their paper counterparts, both laws provide for exceptions.  One of the most common relates to seals and signatures used by professional engineers and surveyors.  In many cases, only the physical seal and signature is the only version that can be used in dispute.  In some cases, you may image the materials, but you are still required to maintain the physical versions.  Failure to do so can result in the individual engineer or surveyor losing their professional registration.

Bill Roach, CRM

MN

Opinions are my own and not those of my employer or any other individual or entity.



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