Toronto Private Investigator, Background Check & Skip Tracing Services

Private Investigators are capable of providing a wide range of services such as locating individuals, protecting assets and yourself, and verifying information. These include skip tracing, locating someone, social media monitoring, fraud, insurance and WSIB investigations, 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 spouse or partner are correct.

Yes, it is legal since Private Investigators have the ability and permission to track a person’s whereabouts if it pertains to a client’s case. Using state-of-the-art tools and investigative skills, they may actively monitor an individual to report their actions. Or, they can use location services such as skip tracing to find missing individuals such as wayward seniors or fleeing debtors.

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 approximate cost of Private Investigator services in Toronto or elsewhere in Canada will vary according to your needs. For instance, our research services are all at a flat rate with no hidden fees. This is because every case and circumstance is unique, much like our custom-tailored investigative services. It should be advised that cheaper agencies are not always the best solution – your best bet is to invest a little more in an established, reputable agency with a good track record. That way, you can be certain you will get the answers you seek.

Private Investigators themselves undergo full background checks with RCMP before serving in the field. Even before this, however, they are required to undergo extensive training to improve their situational awareness and ensure they are ready to practice. Always work with an agency that is fully certified.

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!