Snapshot and Delete Idle Disk

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Prerequisite: To use this check, you must set up a GCP Recommender connection.

CloudZero has identified Google Compute Engine persistent disks and snapshots that appear to be idle and safe candidates for cleanup. Removing idle disks or outdated snapshots can reduce ongoing storage costs without impacting workloads.

Google's Recommender highlights cleanup opportunities using utilization and age signals. Treat these as starting points and validate with service owners and policies before acting.

Recommendations

• Validate usage - Ensure disks aren't attached or used by instance groups, templates, or backup workflows.
• Review snapshot lineage - Confirm remaining snapshots still meet restore/RPO/RTO and compliance needs.
• Check ownership and labels - Verify tags and coordinate with application owners, especially for prod.
• Mind encryption and retention - Align cleanup with CMEK and organizational retention requirements.
• Change safely - Test in non-prod, schedule during maintenance windows, and monitor afterward.

Note: For how to view, apply, or manage recommendations in Google Cloud, refer to Google's official Recommender documentation.