Which of the following is NOT listed as something an auditor should look for during a records audit?

• A. Verify that an up-to-date records manual is available
• B. Check all the major records categories to ensure compliance with records schedules
• C. Spot check individual offices, computer terminals, and files for compliance
• D. Off-site storage is mandatory for all records

Answer: (D)

Auditors focus on whether the agency’s records management program is documented, current, and actually followed. They verify there is an up-to-date records manual so staff know the procedures; they review major records categories to ensure schedules and retention rules are being applied; and they perform spot checks of offices, computer terminals, and files to confirm day-to-day practices align with policy. The idea that off-site storage is mandatory for all records isn’t a universal or practical requirement—storage location depends on policy, sensitivity, accessibility, and disaster recovery planning. An audit would check that storage arrangements are appropriate and authorized, not enforce a blanket mandate that every record must be kept off-site.