Can Private Investigators Check Criminal Records in the UK?

May 26, 2023 - Reading time: 5 minutes
Updated on: April 6, 2025

As one of the UK’s leading detective agencies, we’re often asked whether private investigators can access criminal records as part of a background check. While surveillance and observation remain a core part of most investigations, many clients also instruct us to run detailed checks on individuals or businesses. But when it comes to criminal histories, what’s actually allowed?

Private investigators in the UK cannot access police criminal records or run DBS checks without the subject’s consent. These records are protected by law and considered confidential. However, we can still uncover valuable information about a person’s background using legal and compliant methods — specifically, open-source intelligence (OSINT).

OSINT refers to any data available in the public domain. This includes media archives, court records, news stories, property listings, and more. These sources allow us to conduct background research without breaching data protection laws or requiring consent from the person being investigated.

For example, a court record search may reveal criminal charges — even those that haven’t yet resulted in conviction — which would not be shown on a DBS check. This can be invaluable in protecting clients and allowing them to make informed decisions.

In one recent case, we were asked to investigate a woman’s new partner before he moved into her home. Our checks uncovered that he had recently appeared in court on sexual offence charges — information not yet included on a criminal record. Our client was understandably alarmed but grateful to have this knowledge before it was too late.

Can Private Investigators Use Facial Recognition for Background Checks?

Yes — another effective OSINT tool is our facial recognition background check. By scanning the web for appearances of a subject’s image, we may locate dating profiles, social media posts, adult content, and even articles or court reports linked to their identity. This method relies entirely on publicly available data and does not require permission.

DBS Checks vs OSINT Checks: What’s the Difference?

A criminal record check — now known as a DBS check (formerly CRB) — requires explicit consent from the individual. These are commonly used by employers, especially when hiring for sensitive roles, such as childcare or healthcare. Only official bodies can submit these applications.

DBS checks only show past convictions — they don’t reveal current investigations or pending court appearances. That’s where OSINT-based court record searches come in. We’re often able to find cases that haven't yet led to convictions but still raise concerns worth knowing.

When Would a Background Check Be Appropriate?

There are many scenarios in which a background check — particularly one involving court record searches or reputation checks — can be highly beneficial:

• Pre-matrimonial or partner background checks
• Employee vetting for sensitive roles
• Tenant background checks
• Nanny or babysitter screening
• Online dating or safety-related checks

Unlike the police, we are not bound by internal red tape when researching publicly available data. We conduct thorough, legally compliant investigations to help our clients make safer, smarter decisions.

How to Get Started

If you’d like a quote for a background check or court record search, contact one of our experienced team members. We’ll be happy to advise you based on your specific needs and location.

Important Notes

Our services do not include DBS checks or access to confidential police records. Instead, our research is conducted via public-domain sources — allowing us to deliver valuable intelligence in full compliance with UK law.

It’s worth noting that some convictions — especially older ones — may not appear due to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Additionally, some sensitive offences may never be publicly disclosed.

Nonetheless, our research methods often uncover details missed by official record checks — especially when those checks are limited by consent or scope.

To learn more about our background check or reputation screening services, please get in touch with us in full confidence. All enquiries are handled discreetly.