SharePoint Document Issues

Fix SharePoint Required Fields Showing as False in Access Linked Tables

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to ensure that Microsoft Access correctly recognizes mandatory fields from SharePoint linked tables so dynamic data imports can be validated before submission.

Product: Microsoft Access / SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Dynamically importing data into tables using an Access front-end form linked to SharePoint lists, where field validation is required before saving.
Observed behavior: SharePoint list columns configured as 'Required' are incorrectly showing the 'Required = False' property in the linked Microsoft Access tables.

Before you start

Verify that you have editing permissions for both the Microsoft Access database and the SharePoint lists, and ensure that the 'Require that this column contains information' setting is explicitly set to 'Yes' in SharePoint.

Solution 1Recommended

Refresh the Linked List in Microsoft Access

This forces Microsoft Access to fetch the latest schema and column properties from the connected SharePoint lists.

Often, schema changes made in SharePoint do not automatically sync to the Access front-end. Manually refreshing the linked list can restore the correct field properties.

Open the Navigation Pane

Launch your Microsoft Access database and expand the Navigation Pane on the left side of the screen to view all linked tables.

Locate the affected linked list

Find the SharePoint linked table that is incorrectly displaying the Required property as False.

Refresh the list

Right-click the linked list, select 'More Options' from the context menu, and then click 'Refresh List'.

Verify the field property

Open the linked table in Design View and check if the Required property for the target field has successfully updated to True.

Solution 2

Update Microsoft Access to the Latest Version

Fixes underlying caching anomalies or product defects that prevent the linked table schemas from syncing properly.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Looking for a Lightweight and Free Office Suite?

While Microsoft Access and SharePoint offer complex database linking, managing everyday documents, spreadsheets, and presentations shouldn't be overly complicated or expensive. WPS Office is a highly compatible, free alternative to Microsoft Office that handles Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files with ease.

1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
3. Open your files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents to experience seamless compatibility.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Lightweight design ensuring fast startup and smooth operation.All-in-one interface for managing documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and PDFs.Free to download and use with a familiar, easy-to-learn user interface.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Access reject data inserts even though the form reads the field as Required = False?

Microsoft Access forms may read a cached local table schema, but the backend SharePoint server enforces the actual list rules. If the field is required in SharePoint, the backend server will reject the insert at the point of saving, regardless of what the front-end Access form properties display.

Does refreshing the Access linked table erase my existing SharePoint data?

No, refreshing a linked list in the Access Navigation Pane only updates the table schema and connection metadata. It does not modify or delete the actual list items stored on the SharePoint server.

Is there a workaround if the Required property remains False in Access during dynamic imports?

Yes. As a workaround for dynamic data imports, you can manually maintain a local metadata mapping table within Access. This local table can explicitly flag which SharePoint fields are required, allowing you to bypass reliance on the linked table's inconsistent 'Required' property for pre-validation.

How do I verify if my SharePoint column is actually set to required?

Navigate to your SharePoint site, open the specific list, and go to List Settings. Click on the column name in question and check the 'Require that this column contains information' section to ensure the 'Yes' radio button is selected.

Document & File Issues