How to Quick Fix:

Quick Fix: FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION - field must be populated with a value

The Salesforce API returns error messages when it can’t deploy metadata. Learn more about the error, what the cause is and how you can fix the problem.

In this article, we'll be explaining the FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION error message in Salesforce, what causes it, and how you can resolve it. We'll delve into how this issue arises when certain fields are left blank despite validation rules necessitating a value, and we'll explore quick fixes to ensure smoother functioning. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of this error and how to tackle it effectively.

If you see this Salesforce error message:

FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION The field must be populated with a value

This issue occurs when the named field is blank but a field validation rule requires a value in that field. When you update a record the entire record is checked for custom and system validation rules, even if you are not editing these fields. 

The same error also happens when you are using Apex validations with the .addError() method.

Example:

MyObject__c.MyField__c.addError('message');

If you are sure that you do not have any custom validation enabled and do not use .addError() methods, the other possible scenario for error is that you have a managed package installed that is using these methods. 

Try this quick fix:

  1. Make sure you have permissions to access the field in the source org. 
  2. Make sure no trigger is preventing writing in the destination field. Triggers are usually disabled as a best practice. 
  3. Check if a managed package is firing  custom Apex validations or UI level validations

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FAQ: FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION

What does the Salesforce error message "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION - field must be populated with a value" mean?

  • This error message indicates that a field must have a value populated in it based on a field validation rule. The error occurs when attempting to update a record and the specified field is left blank.

Why am I encountering the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce?

  • The error occurs when a field validation rule requires a value in a field, but the field is left blank during record update. It can also happen when using Apex validations with the .addError() method.

What causes the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce deployments?

  • The error is caused by validation rules that enforce data integrity or business logic. If a field is required and not provided with a value, the error will occur during deployment.

How can I fix the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce?

  • To fix the error, ensure that the field in question is populated with a value that satisfies the validation rule. Check for any triggers that may prevent writing to the destination field and make sure you have the necessary permissions to access the field.

What should I check if I see the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce even though I don't have any custom validation or .addError() methods?

  • If you don't have custom validation or .addError() methods, check if a managed package installed in your org is triggering custom Apex validations or UI-level validations. These packages may have their own validation rules causing the error.

Are there any permissions or triggers that could be causing the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce?

  • Ensure that you have the appropriate permissions to access the field in the source org. Also, verify if any triggers are preventing writing in the destination field. Triggers are usually disabled as a best practice to avoid conflicts.

Could a managed package be triggering the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce? How can I identify and address this?

  • Yes, a managed package installed in your org could be firing custom Apex validations or UI-level validations. To identify the specific package causing the error, review the installed packages and their associated validation rules. Contact the package provider for assistance in addressing the issue.

Are there any best practices to prevent the occurrence of the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce?

  • It is recommended to thoroughly test and validate data input to ensure all required fields are populated. Additionally, consider disabling triggers during certain operations to prevent conflicts with validation rules.

How can I troubleshoot and resolve the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error during Salesforce deployments?

  • Review the specific field validation rules causing the error and ensure that the required fields have values. Analyze any triggers or Apex code that may interact with the fields involved. Check if any managed packages are causing the error and reach out to their providers for guidance.

Are there any known issues or common scenarios that lead to the "FIELD_CUSTOM_VALIDATION_EXCEPTION" error in Salesforce?

  • Common scenarios include missing or incorrectly configured validation rules, incomplete data entry, or conflicts between triggers and validation rules. It's important to review and address these potential issues to prevent the error from occurring.