Updated September 14, 2026
What surveillance is intended to establish
Depending on the matter, surveillance may document observable activities, movements, locations, times, associations or patterns that relate directly to an investigative objective.
Scope should be specific
Before deployment, the investigator should understand the subject, objective, relevant dates or circumstances and what information would actually help the client make a decision.
Preparation matters
Ontario's private investigator training syllabus identifies principles of surveillance including overt and covert approaches, mobile and stationary surveillance, strategic positioning, preparation, site scouting and scheduling. Practical planning helps reduce unnecessary activity and improve documentation.
Documentation should be contemporaneous
Investigative notes and reports should clearly record relevant times, locations, observations and supporting material. The report should avoid turning assumptions into facts.
Lawful and proportionate methods
Surveillance must be conducted within applicable law. Investigators do not obtain police powers through licensing, and an assignment should not rely on unlawful entry, misrepresentation of authority or other prohibited conduct.
Official training reference: Ontario's Private Investigator Training Syllabus - Investigative Techniques.
Related service: Surveillance.