Private Investigator Toronto Surveillance, Skip Tracing Services, Background Checks & More

Private Investigators are capable of providing a wide range of services. These include skip tracing, locating someone, social media monitoring, fraud, surveillance insurance and TSCM (bug sweeps), family-focused investigations pertaining to child custody and welfare, and much more. They are also hired for infidelity cases as well, in order to verify whether someone’s suspicions about a cheating wife or cheating husband are correct.

Yes, it is legal to hire a Private Investigator to follow someone since Private Investigators are licensed professionals who are allowed to conduct investigations on behalf of clients. This type of surveillance typically involves the PI following the person in question and documenting their activities, such as where they go, who they talk to, and what they do. The information gathered by the PI can then be used to help the client in whatever legal action they may be pursuing. Additionally, PIs have the ability to acquire other forms of information that can be used in investigations, such as accessing phone records, obtaining financial documents, and conducting background checks.

Yes. Private Investigators are often recruited by clients to safeguard children caught amidst a custody battle. Such instances include monitoring a child’s welfare from a distance to see whether they are adequately cared for. In addition, they have the ability to investigate whether an ex-spouse or partner is adhering to custody payments or other responsibilities involving child welfare.

Yes. In some circumstances, Private Investigators may be called upon to testify if the information they have obtained could play an important role in a case brought before the courts. They may be asked to present their findings to help the court and jury come to an accurate and appropriate conclusion.

No not legally. Due to privacy restrictions in place to protect those visiting and living within Canada, Private Investigators are not permitted to seek out and obtain cell phone records. The Smith Investigation Agency complies with this rule and fully respects the individual’s right to privacy. Instead, other methods may be used to procure information pertaining to a case, such as fraud investigations or surveillance.

Absolutely. Private Investigators have to undergo rigorous, comprehensive training to secure full certification and the legal privilege to operate. Avoid any investigative agency that does not comply with these rules and be sure to instead reach out to the professionals who follow established standards.

The cost of hiring a private investigator can vary depending on the services you need. For example, our research services are charged at a flat rate. To ensure you are getting the best service for your money, it is recommended to hire a reputable agency with a proven track record of success. The cost of the investigation will depend on the scope of the job, the complexity of the case, the duration of the investigation, and the skills and experience of the investigator. The cost may also include travel expenses, equipment and software, and other costs associated with the investigation.

To become a private investigator in Ontario, you must take a 50-hour online private investigator training course. This course is offered for an affordable price of $199.99 plus applicable taxes. The course is comprehensive and covers a variety of topics, such as investigative techniques, surveillance, evidence-gathering, and legal considerations. Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for a license to practice as a private investigator. Additionally, the course provides you with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a professional private investigator.

Not exactly. There are rules and regulations that must be followed, which Private Investigators are trained to specifically adhere to. These include Canadian privacy laws such as the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), which governs the collection, use, and disclosure of client data. This is why it’s best to work with a Private Investigator firm with a reputation for discretion, professionalism, and respect for your privacy.

No. Doing so would go against our goal of maintaining a discreet, leak-free service that protects your identity. Trust is a critical component of any successful assignment. Otherwise, it is possible that your current situation you’re hiring a Private Investigator for could spiral out of control. Always be sure to deal only with Private Investigator firms that are upfront and clear about how they handle and communicate information, and whether they adhere to PIPEDA.

The Canadian Council of Private Investigators of Ontario (CPIO) is a professional body that oversees all legally operating firms in the province. They help to regulate operations, ensure everyone maintains full compliance with established laws, and protect clients. This helps to ensure the best quality of service and your rights are safeguarded. The Smith Investigation Agency is officially recognized by CPIO.

Don’t worry. The Smith Investigation Agency is proud to offer our services in a timely, proactive manner, while being careful to keep matters safe and private. Many clients come to us to locate wandering elderly parents, fleeing debtors, or even lost children. Our team knows how important it is to work fast, diligently, and secure all possible evidence in a legal and safe manner.

This gets asked a lot, and it boils down to the same thing: Know who you’re working with! The Smith Investigation Agency is proud to have won the Consumer Choice Award from 2017 to 2019 for the Best Private Investigators, made possible by our hardworking experts. We’re also recipients of the Global Excellence Award of 2017 as the Most Trusted Private Investigation Services Provider in Ottawa. In addition, we’re very proud winners of the International AI Influential Business Woman Award for Best Woman-Owned Private Investigative Agency in Easy Canada and the Most Innovative Woman in Executive Protection!