Private investigator analysing evidence on an investigation board

Discreet. Experienced. On your side.

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

0+ Years of experience
0+ Cases solved this year
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24/7 Confidential support

Accredited Private Investigators & Detectives Across the UK

UK Private Investigators was founded in 1997 by Tim Burchell with a clear purpose: to provide discreet, lawful and effective investigation services to individuals and organisations across the United Kingdom. With 29+ years of professional experience, our accredited team delivers relationship investigations, corporate and fraud enquiries, people tracing, background checks, surveillance services and legal support. We operate from offices in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds, Bristol, Glasgow and Newcastle, with nationwide coverage across England, Scotland and Wales. Every case is handled with complete confidentiality, and every investigation is conducted within the law. Whether you are a private client seeking peace of mind or a solicitor requiring court-admissible evidence, our investigators are here to help.

We understand what you're going through

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.

A calmer, clearer way forward.

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

Real results. Real peace of mind.

"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 comprehensive. We now use them for all senior hires."

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a private investigator cost in the UK?

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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 and background checks start from 195 pounds. We provide a free, no-obligation quote after your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.

Are your investigators licensed and accredited?

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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 court proceedings.

Is everything I tell you confidential?

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

How quickly can you start an investigation?

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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.

Will the person I am investigating find out?

Open

Discretion is at the heart of everything we do. Our investigators are trained in covert techniques and we take every precaution to ensure the subject is unaware of the investigation. In 29 years of operations, our methods have never been compromised.

Can your evidence be used in court?

Open

Yes. All evidence we gather is collected lawfully and documented to the standard required by UK courts. We regularly provide evidence for family law, employment, and civil proceedings, and our reports have been accepted by courts across England and Wales.

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

You're in safe hands with me and my team

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

You don't have to figure this out alone.

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

Start your confidential enquiry

Tell us your situation and we will be in touch within 2 hours during business hours.

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