In today’s fast-paced world, suspicions, unanswered questions, and personal or corporate doubts can become a mental burden. Whether it’s a cheating partner, a missing person, employee misconduct, or a case of insurance fraud—hiring a private investigator (PI) can seem like the most effective route to uncover the truth.
But before diving into the world of surveillance and covert investigations, one pressing question often arises: Is hiring a private investigator legal in Canada? The short answer is—Yes, it is absolutely legal, provided certain rules and ethical boundaries are followed.
Let’s unpack everything you need to know about the legality of private investigation in Canada—and why working with a professional security agency like Akin Force can make all the difference.
Understanding The Legal Landscape Of Private Investigation In Canada
Private Investigators in Canada operate under provincial laws and are licensed professionals. Whether you’re in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, or Quebec, each province has its own regulatory body that governs PIs to ensure accountability and ethical practices.
For example:
- Ontario regulates PIs under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005.
- British Columbia licenses them through the Security Services Act.
- Alberta uses the Security Services and Investigators Act.
These laws ensure that private investigators must:
- Be licensed.
- Pass background checks.
- Follow strict ethical and legal guidelines.
- Avoid infringing on rights protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
So, as long as you hire a licensed and certified PI, the process is entirely legal and safe.
What Can a Private Investigator Legally Do in Canada?
While PIs are equipped with specialized tools, training, and access to certain databases, there are limits to what they can legally do. Below are some legal activities private investigators can perform in Canada:
- Surveillance: They can follow a subject in public places, take photos, and document behavior without trespassing or breaking into private property.
- Background Checks: They can access public records, court files, and other legal data sources to build a comprehensive profile of a person.
- Locating People: Whether it’s a long-lost family member, a runaway teen, or a witness in a legal matter, PIs are skilled at tracking people using legal techniques.
- Fraud Investigation: They help businesses and insurance companies detect fraudulent activities through evidence gathering.
- Infidelity Investigation: They can collect lawful evidence of a cheating spouse or partner through ethical surveillance methods.
Note: Akin Force specializes in all of the above services, ensuring compliance with local laws while delivering reliable results.
What Private Investigators Cannot Do
Despite the Hollywood image of PIs hacking phones or sneaking into buildings, there are legal boundaries they cannot cross:
- Wiretapping or recording private conversations without consent (illegal under Canadian privacy laws).
- Trespassing on private property without permission.
- Impersonating law enforcement or accessing protected information like banking or tax records.
- Hacking into phones, emails, or social media (this violates the Criminal Code and privacy laws).
Hiring a rogue investigator or unlicensed freelancer can put you at risk of criminal charges or civil lawsuits—which is why choosing a professional, law-abiding agency like Akin Force is essential.
Why Hire A Private Investigator?
Here are some of the most common reasons people hire PIs in Canada:
- Family disputes (e.g., custody battles, cheating spouse)
- Corporate concerns (e.g., employee theft, workplace harassment)
- Missing persons
- Insurance fraud
- Tenant or landlord screening
- Stalking or harassment cases
No matter the reason, the key is ensuring your investigator works within the law and has a solid track record of success.
The Akin Force Difference
At Akin Force, we don’t just investigate—we bring clarity, closure, and legal peace of mind.
Here’s why our clients trust us:
- Licensed and Certified Investigators
- Discreet and Professional Operations
- Detailed, Legally-Admissible Reports
- Tailored Strategies Based on Your Case
- Nationwide Network with Local Expertise
We understand the emotional and legal complexity of hiring a PI. Our team works closely with each client to define objectives, timelines, and legal constraints—ensuring ethical investigations that bring results.
Visit our Private Investigation Service page to learn more and book a consultation.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Private Investigator in Canada?
The cost of hiring a PI varies depending on:
- The type of case
- Duration and complexity
- Surveillance hours
- Travel and geographical scope
On average, you can expect to pay $70 to $150 per hour, with most investigations requiring 10–20 hours. Akin Force offers custom packages and transparent pricing, so you’ll never be caught off guard.
How To Hire A Legal PI In Canada
If you’re considering hiring a PI, here are some simple steps:
- Verify their license through the provincial regulator.
- Ask for references or previous case studies.
- Understand the scope of what they will do legally.
- Get a clear contract that outlines costs, timelines, and legal boundaries.
- Ensure confidentiality is guaranteed.
Akin Force provides all the above—plus the peace of mind of working with a professional, ethical team.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a private investigator in Canada is 100% legal—as long as you hire someone who is licensed, experienced, and follows the law. Whether you’re trying to get peace of mind in a personal relationship or need critical evidence for a legal or corporate issue, a PI can be your best ally.
Akin Force has helped countless individuals and organizations uncover the truth—ethically and efficiently.
FAQs About Hiring Private Investigators In Canada
Q1. Is it legal to hire a private investigator in Canada?
Yes, hiring a licensed private investigator is legal in all Canadian provinces.
Q2. Do PIs need a license in Canada?
Absolutely. All private investigators must be licensed under their province’s regulatory authority.
Q3. Can a PI access phone or banking records?
No. Accessing such information without consent is illegal.
Q4. Can a PI follow someone?
Yes, as long as it’s done in public spaces and without harassment or trespassing.
Q5. Are the findings from a PI admissible in court?
Yes, if the evidence is gathered legally, it can be used in legal proceedings.
Q6. Can a PI install a GPS tracker on a car?
Only if the client legally owns the vehicle or has consent. Otherwise, it’s illegal.
Q7. How long does an investigation usually take?
This varies, but most investigations take between a few days to a couple of weeks.
Q8. Will the subject know they are being investigated?
Not unless they discover it themselves—PIs operate discreetly.
Q9. How do I verify a PI’s credentials?
Check with your province’s private investigator licensing authority.
Q10. Why should I hire Akin Force over a freelancer?
Akin Force is licensed, insured, discreet, and committed to lawful investigation, ensuring both results and legal protection.