What is proof of cohabitation?
Proof of cohabitation is irrefutable evidence that two individuals are living together at the same address, and are sharing responsibilities within that household. That evidence usually looks like certain documents that feature the names of both individuals, or the individual that is disputing living at the property. This could include:
- Utility bills
- Council tax bills
- Bank or building society statements
- Car documentation
- Letters from the health service
Generally, cohabitation is viewed as a way to prove that a relationship is ‘genuine and subsisting’.
Why is proof of cohabitation important?
1. Legal and financial support
Cohabitation reports can influence spousal or child support arrangements by confirming that a former partner is living with someone else
This evidence may alter their financial obligations.
Solicitors and private clients often use UKPI’s cohabitation investigations to support cases involving post-divorce maintenance payments and financial settlements.
2. Custody and welfare of children
Proof of cohabitation helps ensure a safe environment for children by verifying the background and lifestyle of a new partner in the household.
This information can be crucial in custody cases.
3. Insurance and benefit fraud prevention
Cohabitation evidence can uncover undisclosed living arrangements that might affect eligibility for benefits or insurance claims.
Local authorities frequently use cohabitation reports to investigate fraudulent benefit claims, while housing providers rely on them when suspecting tenants of living with an unauthorized third party.
Proving cohabitation
We understand that every case is very different, so each one taken on by UKPI is appointed to a highly experienced case manager. Together with you, they’ll discuss your circumstances and advise you of the best course of action to prove cohabitation. Our proof of cohabitation reports contain photographic evidence from cohabitation surveillance alongside a detailed report, which includes any additional evidence gathered from other sources.
Hiring a private detective during a divorce is a wise move; professionals like UKPI can stay one step ahead, advising you on the need for cohabitation reports.
Some of our Private Investigator services
Why hire UKPI?
UK private investigators are one of the UK premier detective agencies, with over 28 years of genuine experience. Our operatives are all sources of special forces and police backgrounds, and have year of experience and knowledge.
Frequently asked questions
How much proof of cohabitation do I need during a maintenance payment case?
UKPI’s pricing varies based on the investigation’s scope and duration; we’ll offer you a tailored quote following our initial consultation.
How much does a cohabitation investigation cost?
UKPI’s pricing varies based on the investigation’s scope and duration; we’ll offer you a tailored quote following our initial consultation.
Can your report be used in court?
Yes, our investigators prepare reports with court in mind, ensuring evidence is gathered legally and can therefore be used in court proceedings if necessary.
What evidence is typically included in a cohabitation report?
Hiring a private investigator is not considered harassment in itself, as long as the investigator follows legal and ethical guidelines while conducting their work. Private investigators must adhere to the law and respect an individual’s privacy rights. However, if an investigator engages in illegal or unethical practices, such as stalking, invasion of privacy, or harassment, then it would be considered unlawful and can lead to legal consequences. It is important to ensure you hire a reputable and licensed investigator who operates within the boundaries of the law.
Is a cohabitation investigation legal?
Yes, we conduct our investigations within legal boundaries, respecting privacy laws while gathering publicly accessible and legally obtainable information.
Can the person being investigated find out about the investigation?
No, our investigations are discreet, so we avoid alerting the person being investigated unless it’s required by law.
How long does a cohabitation investigation take?
The duration of our investigations tends to vary, but most cases take a few days to several weeks, depending on the required evidence and the complexity of the situation.
How do I know if I should seek a cohabitation investigator?
You should call cohabitation investigators like UKPI if you suspect a change in financial behaviour, reports of a new partner frequently staying over, or social media activity suggesting a shared home.
How do investigators gather evidence without trespassing or invading privacy?
Our investigators use legal methods like public surveillance, online research, and information from public records to gather evidence without infringing on privacy.
Contact UKPI today to arrange your Cohabitation investigation
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