Investigation Hotline is a licensed Ontario private investigation firm serving Toronto, the GTA, and province-wide. For a complete overview of private investigator rates and costs in Ontario, see our rates guide. Browse investigation services, service areas, and Ontario coverage, or read our guide on how to hire a private investigator.
What is a private investigator? Why hire one? Is it worth the cost? This guide explains what Ontario PIs do, how they are licensed, typical fees, and when hiring makes sense.
What exactly is a private investigator?
Private investigators—also called private detectives—are professionals hired case by case to find and analyze facts for personal, legal, or financial matters. People hire them for infidelity concerns, fraud, missing persons, background checks, and more.
In Ontario and many other provinces, investigators must meet licensing and training requirements before they can operate legally.
Private investigators work on both personal and corporate matters and can be engaged for a wide range of services.
What does a private detective specialize in?
Private detectives provide many services; some specialize in specific case types. Choose an investigator with relevant experience for your situation.
Depending on the case, investigators may conduct surveillance, interviews, records research, and in some cases—locate missing persons. Professional PIs use lawful tools such as surveillance, verified databases, and detailed note-taking so evidence can be used appropriately.
Common private investigation cases include:
- Investigation of a partner or spouse when infidelity is suspected
- Locating missing or stolen property
- Background checks for employees or personal relationships
- Case research for lawyers
- Surveillance, including GPS monitoring where lawful
- Criminal or misconduct investigations in business or personal settings
- Locating individuals such as relatives or witnesses
Are private investigators licensed in Ontario?
In Ontario, private investigators must be licensed. Before you hire, confirm the agency and investigator are licensed and understand privacy and evidence rules in your province.
This matters for liability and because you need evidence gathered lawfully to be admissible in court when applicable. An unlicensed or careless investigator can put your case and you at risk.
When should you hire a private investigator?
If something in your personal or business life does not add up—suspicious behaviour, unexplained assets, or safety concerns—it may be worth a confidential consultation. A licensed PI often has experience and lawful methods to find information you cannot obtain on your own.
For a full walkthrough, see when to hire a private investigator and our Ontario hiring guide. Be prepared for the answers an investigation may reveal before you commit.
How much does a private investigator cost?
For current Ontario fee ranges and what affects your quote, see our private investigator rates guide.
Certain services such as background checks may be charged as a flat fee. More often, investigators charge an hourly rate. Pricing depends on location, case type, and complexity. Typical ranges are often discussed in the $60–$120 per hour range, plus travel and expenses; always confirm your written quote.
Be cautious when choosing based on price alone—lower cost does not always mean the same quality or results. Review credentials, licensing, and verified client feedback.
At Investigation Hotline, clients often come to us after disappointing experiences elsewhere. We focus on lawful methods and clear communication. For honest advice from investigators with decades of experience, call 416-205-9114 or read our Google reviews.
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