Professional investigation services in the UK provide a wide range of services to individuals and businesses alike.
Professional investigators, also known as PIs, are mostly professionals who are hired to conduct investigations and gather information on behalf of their clients.
In this article, we will explore the various types of professional investigation services available in the UK.
1. Surveillance:
Surveillance is one of the most common types of professional investigation services. Professional investigators use various techniques to observe and document the activities of an individual or group of individuals. Surveillance can be conducted using video cameras, audio recording devices, or simply by following a subject on foot or in a vehicle.
2. Background checks:
Professional investigators can also conduct thorough background checks on individuals or businesses. Background checks typically involve verifying a person's identity, criminal history, employment history, and financial history. This information can be useful for employers, landlords, or anyone else who needs to make an informed decision about a person or company.
3. Asset searches:
Professional investigators can also conduct asset searches to help individuals or businesses locate hidden assets or determine the financial status of an individual or company. Asset searches can be useful in divorce cases, business disputes, or other legal matters.
4. Fraud investigations:
Professional investigators can also investigate cases of fraud, including insurance fraud, financial fraud, and identity theft. These investigations typically involve gathering evidence to support a criminal or civil case.
5. Missing persons investigations:
Professional investigators can also help locate missing persons, including runaway children, family members, or individuals who have disappeared under suspicious circumstances.
6. Corporate investigations:
Professional investigators can also assist businesses with a wide range of investigations, including employee theft, intellectual property theft, and due diligence investigations for mergers and acquisitions.
In order to ensure that professional investigators adhere to ethical and legal standards, they should be a verified member of an accredited professional body, such as the Association of British Investigators.
Accountability is of key importance and this the ABI robustly enforces through its industry leading Code of Ethics & Professional Standards. The ABI oversees its members’ necessary training and regular vetting.
When hiring a professional investigator, it is important to clearly communicate your goals and expectations. This will help the investigator develop a plan of action that is tailored to your specific needs.
Additionally, you should ask the investigator about their experience and qualifications, as well as their fees and billing practices.
Professional investigation services can be costly, and the fees charged by professional investigators can vary depending on the nature and complexity of the investigation.
It is important to have a clear understanding of the costs associated with the investigation before hiring a professional investigator.
Finally, it is important Professional investigators must comply with strict legal and ethical standards when conducting investigations, and any evidence gathered must be obtained legally and ethically.
Overall, professional investigation services in the UK can provide valuable assistance to individuals and businesses in a wide range of situations. Whether you need help with a personal matter or a business dispute, a reputable professional investigator can provide the expertise and support necessary to achieve your goals.
Please contact the Association of British Investigators for a referral here.