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Deleted File Recovery

How to Recover a SharePoint List Item Deleted with CSOM

WPS EditorWPS Editor Sep 30, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to recover a SharePoint list item that was deleted using the CSOM DeleteObject() method and is not visible in the standard recycle bin.

How to Recover a SharePoint List Item Deleted with CSOM
Product
SharePoint Online
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Attempting to restore an urgently needed SharePoint list item that was deleted via CSOM code execution.
Observed behavior
The list item was deleted using DeleteObject() but does not appear in the recycle bin, suggesting it may have been permanently deleted rather than moved to the trash.
Before you start

Ensure you have the necessary site collection administrator permissions to view the second-stage recycle bin, or know how to contact your Microsoft 365 IT administrator for support.

Solution 1Recommended

Check the First and Second-Stage Recycle Bins

Verify whether the item was routed to the standard recycle bin or the secondary site collection recycle bin before assuming permanent deletion.

While certain CSOM deletion methods bypass the recycle bin, it is essential to thoroughly check both recycle bin stages first to rule out the possibility that the item is still accessible for a standard recovery.

1
Access the Site Recycle Bin

Navigate to the SharePoint site where the list item was deleted and click on 'Recycle bin' in the left navigation pane.

2
Check the Second-Stage Recycle Bin

Scroll to the bottom of the first-stage recycle bin page and click the 'Second-stage recycle bin' link if the item is not found.

3
Restore the Item

If you locate the deleted list item in either bin, select the checkbox next to it and click the 'Restore' button.

Check the First and Second-Stage Recycle Bins
Permanent Deletion Risk: When using the CSOM Delete() or DeleteObject() methods, items are often permanently deleted directly, bypassing the recycle bin entirely. In the future, use the Recycle() method to safely send items to the trash.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the CSOM DeleteObject() method bypass the recycle bin?

Yes, in many cases, using the Delete() or DeleteObject() methods in CSOM will permanently delete the list item, skipping both the first and second-stage SharePoint recycle bins.

How long does Microsoft retain deleted SharePoint data for support restoration?

Microsoft typically retains automated SharePoint Online backups for 14 days. During this window, an administrator can request a point-in-time restoration via a Microsoft support ticket.

How can I safely delete SharePoint items using CSOM without permanent deletion?

To ensure deleted items go to the SharePoint recycle bin where they can be manually restored by users, use the Recycle() method instead of the DeleteObject() method in your CSOM code.