Founded in 1913, the Association of British Investigators (ABI) is the UK’s leading beacon in the wild world of unregulated private investigation. Today it has over 400 members globally who meet the body’s rigorous standards. They pioneer self-regulation, advocate for formal industry standards, and strive for official recognition of the legitimate professional investigator.
They certainly place a strong emphasis on choosing the right investigator and the importance of due diligence. Their membership criteria are not just strict—they’re essential for ensuring that customers receive reliable, ethical, and professional services. Here’s why being a member of the ABI is crucial for our clients.
An Unregulated Industry
It’s surprising but true: the investigative profession in the UK is entirely unregulated. Anyone can call themselves an investigator and charge for their services. This lack of regulation can lead to alarming outcomes if the investigator you hire doesn’t adhere to professional standards.
Accountability Matters
Unlike police officers, who are held accountable by formal complaints systems and face severe consequences for misconduct, private investigators have no such regulatory oversight. However, ABI members adhere to a strict code of ethics and a robust complaints procedure. Complaints against ABI members are handled by an Independent Adjudicator, typically a lawyer, ensuring impartiality. This system helps maintain high standards and deters misconduct, as expulsion from the ABI would be both commercially and reputationally devastating.
Data Protection Compliance
All ABI members are required to be registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), ensuring they handle personal data lawfully and securely. The ABI verifies this compliance for all its members, so clients can trust that their data is in safe hands.
Financial Stability
Investigators often handle highly sensitive and valuable information. The ABI checks potential members for adverse credit history, such as County Court Judgments or bankruptcy. Financial stability is crucial for maintaining integrity and trustworthiness in prolonged investigations.
Clean Criminal Records
To ensure reliability and trust, ABI members undergo criminal record checks. This measure protects clients from hiring individuals with histories of dishonesty or violence, which could compromise the investigation and the client’s reputation.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
Even the most skilled professionals can make mistakes. That’s why ABI members are required to have Professional Indemnity Insurance. This provides clients with peace of mind, knowing they are protected against potential errors or omissions.
Competency and Continuous Learning
Membership in the ABI isn’t granted lightly. Prospective members must pass an industry-standard examination and demonstrate their competency. The ABI also offers ongoing professional development through seminars, its Academy, and branch meetings to ensure members stay current with industry advancements.
Character and References
Applicants undergo a thorough vetting process, including the provision of credible references and a selection interview by senior ABI members. Existing members can object to applicants who do not meet the high standards expected, ensuring only those of good character join the ranks.
Extensive Network and Experience
With over a century of experience, the ABI offers a wealth of knowledge and a broad network of professionals. This network spans the UK and the globe, providing members—and their clients—with access to a wide range of expertise and resources.
Self-Regulation for Confidence
Lawyers make up the majority of the ABI’s client base, and they must adhere to the rules set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. This means they need to work with accredited suppliers, but in an unregulated profession, that’s easier said than done. Thankfully, the ABI’s decision to self-regulate simplifies this process for lawyers, serving as a comprehensive solution for due diligence.
Why It Matters
The ABI’s dedication to improving standards, professionalising the sector, and eliminating unscrupulous and incompetent investigators is crucial. It ensures that clients receive reliable, ethical, and professional investigative services.
Furthermore, the ABI is the trailblazer in the investigations industry to get a recognised code of conduct in place. Their relentless efforts, including collaboration with the ICO, are bringing them closer to this goal after many years of hard work.
This is why the ABI’s mission is so crucial. They are dedicated to raising standards, professionalising the industry, and eliminating the unscrupulous and incompetent from the field.
By choosing an ABI member investigator, you’re opting for professionalism, accountability, and peace of mind.
Tremark’s directors have been full members of the Association for over 20 years. Tremark Associates achieved corporate membership of the Association of British Investigators in 2014 and continues to hold this. To find out more about our services do get in touch info@tremark.co.uk
