Cost of Historical Records Storage
across the UK

# Historical Records Storage: Understanding Trade Body Accreditation

Several UK trade bodies and regulatory schemes govern historical records storage, each certifying different aspects of service quality and compliance. The National Archives provides guidance through its standard for the management of government records, whilst the British Records Association (BRA) represents independent archives and record offices across the country. For businesses storing records off-site, the Information and Records Management Society (IRMS) offers professional standards and certification programmes that focus on best practice in records management. ISO 27001 certification is particularly relevant for digital records and data security, whilst BS 9001 quality management standards demonstrate a commitment to consistent service delivery. Smaller storage providers may hold membership with the Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA), which emphasises professional competence in records handling. Understanding these accreditations helps you distinguish between providers operating to formal industry standards and those operating without external oversight.

Verifying a provider's credentials is straightforward but essential. Request documentary proof of any claimed accreditations, such as current certificates from IRMS, the BRA, or relevant ISO standards bodies, and cross-check these against public registers maintained by the awarding organisations. Contact the trade body directly if in doubt, as fraudulent claims are rare but do occur. Check how long the accreditation has been held and whether it requires ongoing renewal or audit; accreditations typically require annual reviews or periodic reassessment, so a current certificate is more meaningful than an old one. This verification matters because it provides independent assurance that a provider meets documented standards for environmental controls, security, staff training, and disaster recovery—areas where failures can be expensive and irreversible. Without accreditation, you have limited recourse if standards slip, whereas accredited providers remain accountable to their certifying body.

Accredited historical records storage providers typically charge 10 to 25 percent more than non-