How do you choose a reliable private investigator?
A reliable private investigator holds a valid POB licence, uses investigators with a private investigator diploma, handles your data with care, and offers a free first conversation with a clear cost estimate up front. Always verify the licence yourself. Below: seven checks and the warning signs.
Checklist: 7 things to look for
- 1. Verify the POB licence
Without a licence from the Dutch Ministry of Justice & Security, a bureau may not carry out or offer investigation work in the Netherlands. Ask for the licence number and check it against the list of licence holders. - 2. Ask about the diploma and the ID pass
Under the Wpbr, an investigation bureau may only assign investigators who hold the SVPB private investigator diploma. Investigators can also identify themselves with their ID card, the so-called yellow pass ('gele pas'). Ask about this, especially with a bureau you don't know. - 3. Pay attention to privacy and data handling
An investigation bureau works under a privacy code of conduct and should handle your data and that of others with care. Ask how your file is stored and who has access to it. - 4. Choose a free first conversation and a clear cost estimate
A good bureau starts with a no-obligation intake call and tells you before starting what the investigation is expected to cost. An hourly rate without an estimate leaves you in the dark. - 5. Ask about experience with your situation
Infidelity, stalking, maintenance fraud and sick leave fraud each need a different approach. Ask how the bureau handles cases like yours and what is realistic. - 6. Pay attention to discretion
Ask how the investigation is carried out without worsening your situation or alerting the person concerned. Discretion should be discussed upfront, not afterwards. - 7. Ask what the final report looks like
A usable report is factual and objective, with photo or video material where relevant, and suitable for use with a lawyer or in court.
Warning signs
- The bureau gives no licence number or does not want it verified.
- Outcomes are guaranteed, or the bureau works on a no-win-no-fee basis.
- You only get an hourly rate or a vague amount, without a written estimate.
- You are pressured to decide immediately.
- Methods are offered that are not allowed, such as hacking or wiretapping (see is it legal?).
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How do I check whether a bureau holds a licence?
Ask for the POB licence number and look it up in the public list of Wpbr licence holders. Santos Recherchebureau's licence is POB 7635.
What's the difference between a private investigator and a private detective?
In practice, both terms are used interchangeably for the same profession: a licensed investigator who conducts private investigations.
Is the cheapest private investigator the best choice?
Not necessarily. Focus on licensing, experience and cost transparency: an unusually low price can indicate an inexperienced or unlicensed provider.
What does a private investigator cost?
At Santos Recherchebureau from €99.50 excl. VAT per hour. See the explanation on our cost page.
Can I do my own research before hiring an investigator?
Certainly, but be careful: doing your own research can make evidence less usable or worsen the situation. Feel free to discuss this during the intake call.
Santos Recherchebureau meets every point
POB 7635 · AP FG014825 · BPOB-lid
Licence, ID (yellow pass) and diplomas: we are happy to show you these during the intake call.
Quick contactWant to know what we can do for you?
Get in touch, free and without obligation. We respond within 24 hours and think along with you, discreetly.
4.9/5 · 16 reviews on Google · Licensed investigation bureau · POB 7635
