Deleting Custom Fields
Remove custom fields while understanding data preservation and recovery.
Deleting a Field #
- Navigate to PloverCRM → Settings → PloverCRM
- Scroll to Custom Fields section
- Click Delete (trash icon) on the field
- Confirm deletion
What Happens #
Field Definition Removed:
- No longer appears in forms, API responses, filters
- Removed from custom fields list
Data Preserved (Hidden):
- Values remain in database
- Recoverable by recreating field with same slug
- Prevents accidental data loss
Before Deleting #
Export data: PloverCRM → Contacts → Export → Download CSV
Check usage: Verify field isn’t used in forms, API, reports, or mobile app
Communicate: Notify team members
Recovering a Deleted Field #
- Navigate to PloverCRM → Settings → PloverCRM
- Click Add Custom Field
- Enter exact same slug (case-sensitive)
- Configure properties and save
Existing data reappears for contacts with values.
Permanently Deleting Data #
Warning: This action is irreversible. Always backup your data first!
Contact your system administrator or developer if you need to permanently remove field data from the database.
Alternatives to Deletion #
Make read-only: Edit field → Check “Read-Only”
Hide from roles: Edit permissions → Remove read access
Archive: Change group to “Archived” or “Deprecated”
Rename: Add “[DEPRECATED]” prefix to label
Troubleshooting #
Can’t delete: Verify Super Admin role, check if system field
Field reappears: Clear caches, check if another admin recreated it
FAQ #
Q: Does deleting remove data? A: No. Field definition is removed, data stays in database.
Q: Can I undo deletion? A: Yes. Recreate with exact same slug.
Q: Will API integrations break? A: Yes. API calls won’t return deleted field data.
Last updated: February 3, 2026
