Top Reasons to Hire a Private Investigator in the UK

June 22, 2021 - Reading time: 5 minutes
Updated on: August 7, 2025

People often assume private investigators are only hired in extreme situations, but the truth is quite the opposite. In the UK, private investigators assist with a wide range of sensitive, personal, and legal matters - many of which the police either can't or won't handle.

If you need verified information, surveillance, or help finding someone, hiring a private investigator could be the most efficient way to get answers. Below are 12 of the most common reasons people in the UK choose to hire a PI.

1. Infidelity investigations

Suspect your partner might be cheating? Living in doubt can take a toll on your wellbeing. Private investigators can discreetly monitor your partner’s activities, providing photo or video evidence. This evidence can help bring clarity - and closure - whether you're seeking peace of mind or preparing for legal proceedings.

2. Background checks before marriage or dating

Whether you’ve met someone online or are planning to marry a foreign partner, it’s wise to verify their background. A PI can confirm identity, marital status, employment, education, and more. Better safe than sorry - especially when legal issues or immigration processes are involved.

3. Child custody disputes

If you're going through a custody battle, proving your child’s welfare is key. Private investigators can gather evidence of neglect, risky behaviour, or dishonesty - helping your solicitor build a stronger case. Surveillance and witness interviews can be presented in court if needed.

4. Tracing missing people or debtors

Need to find someone? Whether it’s a missing relative or someone who owes you money, private investigators can help. We use public records, databases, and investigative techniques to locate missing persons or trace debtors across the UK.

5. Insurance or benefit fraud investigations

Insurance and welfare fraud cost businesses and taxpayers millions every year. Private investigators are often hired by insurers or councils to verify claims. We’ve exposed cases where claimants with “life-limiting injuries” were seen playing sports or doing manual work.

6. Identity theft or online scams

Victim of fraud or identity theft? A private investigator can help you collect evidence, identify the source, and even assist the police with a stronger case. We can also help prevent future attacks by identifying data breaches or points of exposure.

7. Business and employment background checks

If you're hiring a senior employee, onboarding a business partner, or making a major investment, conducting due diligence is critical. Private investigators can vet companies or individuals to uncover red flags like previous bankruptcies, litigation, or false qualifications.

8. Pre-investment checks (UK and overseas)

Thinking about investing in a startup or an international company? A private investigator can help confirm whether the opportunity is legitimate. We investigate business registration, legal history, key personnel, and financial credibility - especially important for overseas ventures.

9. Investigating stalking or harassment

If you're being followed, threatened, or harassed, it may not meet the police threshold - but that doesn't mean you're on your own. A PI can help identify the stalker, gather evidence, and support your efforts to get a restraining order or take legal action.

10. Social media investigations

More and more legal disputes involve information found on social media. We can document online behaviour, flag suspicious profiles, or uncover fake identities used to deceive or harass. This is particularly useful in family law and fraud cases.

11. Verifying personal relationships or online identities

If you suspect catfishing or are concerned about someone you met online, a PI can check whether their profile is real. We verify identities, photos, addresses, and personal claims so you can move forward with clarity - or step back if something’s off.

12. Corporate fraud or intellectual property theft

If your business is losing money or you suspect internal fraud, hiring a private investigator can help. We work discreetly to uncover theft, data leaks, or unauthorised use of company property. We also investigate trademark infringement and counterfeit goods.

Hiring a Private Investigator in the UK

Whether it’s a legal matter, a personal concern, or a business issue - private investigators offer professional, confidential services tailored to your situation. At PrivateInvestigators-UK, we handle every case with care, discretion and legal compliance.

Our clients include solicitors, businesses, local authorities, and individuals across the country. From process serving to surveillance, asset tracing and fraud investigation - our work is built on results and integrity.

Explore our services and pricing

We operate nationwide and also offer international investigations. Please visit the Private Investigators UK homepage to learn more about our services, or contact us directly for a confidential consultation.