- Write reports or case summaries to document investigations.
- Conduct private investigations on a paid basis.
- Search computer databases, credit reports, public records, tax or legal filings, or other resources to locate persons or to compile information for investigations.
- Conduct personal background investigations, such as pre-employment checks, to obtain
Private investigator Average UK Salary & Prospects
Private investigators (PIs) carry out enquiries for their clients to find out information and check facts.
Private investigators typically work around 46 to 48 hours per week.
As a Private investigator you will typically work evenings / weekends / bank holidays.
This occupation tends to be:
Average salary |
27,545 GBP * |
per year |
Salary statistics
Average salary for Private investigator
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29,381 GBP
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26,257 GBP
Average salary for part-time Private investigator
Average salary for full-time Private investigator
Showing:
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13,601 GBP
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13,475 GBP
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14,468 GBP
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27,545 GBP
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26,257 GBP
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29,381 GBP
Pay over time for Private investigator
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23,925 GBP
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24,568 GBP
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24,611 GBP
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25,792 GBP
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26,777 GBP
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27,545 GBP
Future outlook for Private investigators

Balanced outlook
188 000+ jobs available 
Balanced outlook
3% yearly wage growth (on average) Private investigator - Your future job?
Which qualifications do I need?
Find out what you need to know in order to become a Private investigator and the highest average level of education for people in this role.
What soft skills do I need?
Rise above the competition by brushing up on the 5 most important soft skills you need to become a Private investigator.
Active Listening Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times

Speaking Talking to others to convey information effectively

Critical Thinking Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems

Reading Comprehension Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents

Complex Problem Solving Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions
What technical skills do I need?
Technical skills are programmes, softwares and things you need to know in order to be a successful Private investigator. Check that you know:
Things to highlight for your Private investigator interview
Integrity Job requires being honest and ethical. Attention to Detail Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. Dependability Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations. Independence Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done. Initiative Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.