History of the ABI

With origins dating back to 1913, the Association of British Investigators is recognised as the premier professional body for private investigators working in the UK. Two dates are particularly significant in the history of the Association.

1953 the British Detectives Association amalgamated with the Federation of British Detectives to form the Association of British Detectives.

1970 the Association became a corporate body and assumed its current title.

Throughout its long history the Association has worked hard to improve the standing and reputation of the investigative profession in the UK, including the lobbying of the UK Parliament and the Home Office for a form of statutory control.

Today the Association is playing a lading role in the work of the Investigators' Sector, a group established to hold discussions with the Security Industry Authority about licensing of investigators in England and Wales.

A World Association of Professional Investigators

There are ABI members located in many countries, not just in the UK, making it a world association of professional investigators.

Members must conduct their business in a professional manner and comply with a strict code of ethics.

Member Code of Ethics

We Pledge

To perform all professional duties in accordance with the highest moral principles and never be guilty of conduct which will bring reproach upon the profession of the private investigator and The Association of British Investigators.

To verify the credentials of clients and that they have lawful and moral reasons to instruct an investigation.

To respect the privacy of clients and their lawful confidence.

To ensure that services are adequately secure to protect privacy and to guard against inadvertent disclosure of private information.

To ensure that all employees and other persons paid to assist an investigation adhere to this Code of Ethics and to accept responsibility therefor.

To conduct all investigations within the bounds of legality, morality and professional ethics.

To respect the best interest of our clients by maintaining the high standard of proficiency and reporting to our clients all the facts ascertained whether they be advantageous or detrimental, and nothing be withheld from the clients save by the dictates of law.

To work together with all members of our Association towards the achievement of the highest professional objectives of the Association and to observe the precepts of truth, accuracy and prudence.

How to join the ABI

Visit our UK site for further details about the ABI and how to join.

Visit www.theabi.org.uk