Private investigator analysing evidence on an investigation board

Accredited investigators. Operating since 1997.

When something feels wrong, the first step should feel safe.

UKPI helps individuals and organisations find clarity in difficult times. We listen first, protect your privacy, and help you take the right next step: discreetly.

Speak to an investigator in confidence: 0800 043 1754

Rated 4.8/5 from 127+ reviews 87% trace success rate Established 1997
29+ Years of experience
900+ Cases solved this year
98% Success Rate
24/7 Confidential support

Private Investigator Services in London and Across the UK

UK Private Investigators was founded in 1997 by Tim Burchell to provide discreet, lawful and effective investigation services to individuals and organisations across the United Kingdom. As an established firm of private investigators and detectives, we combine nearly three decades of field experience with methods that deliver legally sound, actionable information. Our nationwide team handles relationship investigations, corporate and fraud cases, people tracing, background screening, surveillance services and legal support. We operate from our London office at Kemp House, City Road, with investigators deployed across all major UK cities including Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds, Bristol, Glasgow and Newcastle. Our Greater London coverage extends from Westminster to Croydon, Camden to Ealing. Every case is handled with complete confidentiality. Every investigation is conducted within the law. Whether you are a private client who needs answers or a solicitor who needs evidence for proceedings, our investigators are here to help.

Why it matters

Why hire a private investigator?

Evidence that holds up in legal proceedings

Our investigators document every finding to the standard required for family, civil and employment cases. Reports are written so your solicitor can rely on them, and our methods are designed to withstand challenge. Across 29 years of casework, evidence gathered by our private detectives has been accepted by courts in England and Wales.

Accredited, regulated and discreet

UK Private Investigators is a member of the IAAR, UK-PSA and SoFI, and we follow the professional codes those bodies set. We process personal data in line with UK data protection law and our duties to the Information Commissioner’s Office. For wider context on professional standards, the Association of British Investigators publishes a public code of conduct, and the Security Industry Authority regulates related security work. If you specifically need a private detective, that page explains how the service compares.

When to call

If you are weighing up whether to hire a private investigator, an early conversation costs nothing and often saves money. We explain your options, set out likely timescales, and quote a clear price before any work begins. You can review typical fees on our private investigator costs page.

Three quick questions. One clear recommendation.

Licensed You're not alone in this

1 What brings you here today?

2 Tell us more

Answer question 1 first

3 One more thing

Answer question 2 first
Your next step

Answer three questions and we will show you the best way forward based on your situation.

1 2 3

Less pressure. More careful guidance.

1
We listen first

You talk. We listen. No pressure, no judgement. Just confidential space to be heard.

Consultation
2
We map your options

We explain what's possible, what's proportionate and what will help you move forward safely.

Investigation
3
We take careful action

We act discreetly and lawfully, keeping you informed and in control at every step.

Report Delivery

What our clients say

"From the first call I felt listened to. They explained everything clearly and handled my case with real sensitivity. I finally had the answers I needed."

"Professional, discreet, and thorough. The report they provided was exactly what my solicitor needed. I would recommend UKPI without hesitation."

"I was nervous about hiring a private investigator but they put me at ease straight away. The whole process was handled with care and respect."

"They traced someone I had been trying to find for years. Within a week I had a confirmed address. Brilliant service and very reasonably priced."

"Our company used UKPI for a sensitive internal matter. They were methodical, lawful, and the evidence they gathered was court-admissible. First class."

"The background check saved us from a costly hiring mistake. Quick turnaround and the report was thorough and detailed. We now use them for all senior hires."

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a private investigator and a private detective?

Close

In the UK, the terms are used interchangeably. Both refer to licensed professionals who conduct investigations for private clients, solicitors, and businesses. At UKPI, our investigators hold the same accreditations whether called detectives or investigators.

Are private detectives legal in the UK?

Open

Yes. Private detectives operate legally in the UK provided they comply with data protection law, avoid harassment, and respect privacy rights. UKPI investigators are members of the IAAR, UK-PSA and SoFI, and all our methods meet legal standards.

How much does a private investigator cost in the UK?

Open

Costs depend on the case type and complexity. Surveillance is charged at 295 pounds per operative per day, with a discounted daily rate when three or more days are instructed. People tracing is a fixed fee of 120 pounds per trace. We provide a free, no-obligation quote after your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.

Are your investigators licensed and accredited?

Open

Yes. All UKPI operatives hold relevant professional accreditations and follow strict codes of conduct. We are members of recognised industry bodies and our evidence-gathering methods meet the standards required for legal proceedings.

Is everything I tell you confidential?

Open

Absolutely. Every enquiry, conversation, and piece of evidence is treated with the strictest confidence. We never share your details with anyone without your explicit written consent.

How quickly can you start an investigation?

Open

In most cases we can begin within 24 to 48 hours of your initial consultation. For urgent matters, same-day deployment is often possible depending on your location and the type of investigation.

Nationwide coverage

Private Investigators Across the UK

With offices and field operatives in every major city, we are never far away. Each location page includes local pricing, coverage areas, and case studies relevant to your region.

Tim Burchell, Founder of UK Private Investigators
Since 1997

Why Choose UK Private Investigators

I started this business in 1997 because I saw too many people struggling to find answers. Since then, I've helped hundreds of families find the truth they needed to move forward. Every case matters. Whether you're worried about a partner, concerned about a business deal, or simply need to know what's really going on, I understand the weight you're carrying. My team and I treat every investigation with the care and discretion it deserves. With 29 years of experience across the UK, we've seen it all. But we never forget that behind every file is a real person who deserves honest answers and professional support.
Tim Burchell
Founder & Lead Investigator

Trusted by Clients Across the UK

See what our clients say about working with us.

“Professional from start to finish. They understood the sensitivity of my case and handled everything with real care.”

David K., Manchester

“The evidence they gathered was accepted by the court without question. Thorough, discreet, and worth every penny.”

Michelle T., London

“From the first phone call I felt reassured. They explained exactly what they could do and stuck to the price they quoted.”

Rachel D., Bristol
29+ Years Experience
IAAR Member
Court Admissible Evidence
Available 24/7
Fully Confidential
Rated 5.0 based on verified client reviews

A confidential conversation can bring clarity and control.

  • Confidential by default
  • UK and international experience
  • Regulated. Lawful. Ethical.
  • Clear reporting and next steps

Prefer to talk? Call us now:

0800 043 1754 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
IAAR UK-PSA SoFI Est. 1997
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