What’s the problem?

When a task fails to save or is deleted immediately after creation, any file uploaded in that workflow becomes an unattached (“limbo”) asset.

• We can see the file in the global Files view, but it’s locked—neither downloadable nor deletable.

• These files linger for 30 days until the automated cleanup runs, which clutters storage, confuses the team (“Where does this file belong?”), and may expose sensitive data longer than necessary.

Why it matters

• Storage hygiene & security – Orphaned files consume space and may contain data that shouldn’t remain accessible.

• User experience – Team members click on these files expecting content, only to encounter an error message.

• Governance – Many organizations need to comply with internal or external data-retention policies that require the faster removal of data.

Proposed solution

1. Admin action menu for orphaned files

• Allow Workspace Owners/Admins to Download, Delete Permanently, or Relink to an existing task.

2. Orphaned files filter in the Files modal, making them easy to locate.

3. Automatic notifications (optional) to alert admins when orphaned files exceed a threshold (e.g., 50 MB or 10 items).

4. API/Automation hook so we can use ClickUp Automations / external tools to clean up or flag these files programmatically.

Impact / ROI

• Keeps Workspaces organized and storage costs down.

• Reduces support tickets about “broken” attachments.

• Gives security-conscious teams immediate control over stray data.