Private Investigation Services FAQ

Question 1

What is Privacy Certification?

Accepted Answer

Privacy Certification is an independent inspection carried out by a licensed Private Investigator to assess whether there are indicators of unauthorised electronic surveillance — such as hidden cameras, microphones, or tracking devices - within nominated areas of your premises. Where no such devices are detected, a Privacy Certification is issued confirming that professional steps were taken to assess privacy risks at the time of inspection.

Question 2

Does Privacy Certification guarantee there are no hidden cameras?

Accepted Answer

No. Privacy Certification does not guarantee that no surveillance exists now or in the future. Like all professional inspections, it reflects conditions at a specific point in time. The certification confirms that: a professional inspection was conducted, specialist detection equipment was used, and no unauthorised surveillance devices were identified during that inspection. It does not detect devices that are inactive, shielded, or installed after the inspection.

Question 3

How long does Privacy Certification remain valid?

Accepted Answer

The certification reflects conditions at the time of inspection. Many clients choose to renew Privacy Certification: periodically (e.g. annually), after renovations or layout changes, following staff changes, or if a concern, complaint, or allegation is raised. There is no fixed expiry, but certification should be viewed as a point-in-time assessment rather than a permanent guarantee.

Question 4

What types of devices can be detected?

Accepted Answer

Privacy Certification focuses on identifying active or transmitting surveillance devices, including: hidden wireless cameras, covert microphones and listening devices, devices transmitting via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, and active GPS tracking devices that transmit using radio-frequency or cellular signals. Detection is supported by physical inspection and professional judgement.

Question 5

Can you detect devices that are switched off?

Accepted Answer

No. Electronic detection equipment is designed to identify devices that are powered on or actively transmitting at the time of inspection. Devices that are switched off, dormant, or fully shielded may not be detectable. This limitation applies across the entire electronic counter-surveillance industry and is not unique to Privacy Certification.

Question 6

Why use a licensed Private Investigator rather than consumer tools?

Accepted Answer

Consumer tools and visual checks have limitations and often provide false reassurance. Privacy Certification combines: licensed investigative practice, specialist detection equipment, physical inspection, and professional judgement and documentation. This produces a level of due diligence that can be relied upon if privacy is ever questioned.

Question 7

Do you remove devices if you find one?

Accepted Answer

No - not unless expressly authorised. If a suspected device or anomaly is identified: the finding is documented and photographed, the client is informed discreetly, and the device is not interfered with unless the client provides clear authority. Options may include removal, further examination, or referral to appropriate authorities. Any further action is handled separately and in accordance with New Zealand law.

Question 8

What happens if something suspicious is found?

Accepted Answer

If a suspected surveillance device or anomaly is identified, Privacy Certification is not issued at that stage. Certification is only issued once the issue has been appropriately resolved. This ensures the certification remains meaningful, accurate, and defensible.

Question 9

Is this service legal in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Privacy Certification is conducted lawfully by a licensed Private Investigator, with the consent of the property owner or authorised representative. All inspections and findings are handled in accordance with New Zealand privacy and surveillance laws. We do not install surveillance, conduct monitoring, or interfere with devices without authority.

Question 10

Can I use the certification publicly?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Clients may display the Privacy Certification to demonstrate that an independent inspection has been carried out. How and where it is displayed is up to the client. The certification does not authorise claims of ongoing or guaranteed privacy and should be represented accurately.

Question 11

Is Privacy Certification suitable for Airbnb or short-term accommodation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Privacy Certification is commonly used by short-term accommodation providers to demonstrate due diligence and reassure guests that privacy expectations have been professionally considered. It is particularly relevant for spaces where guests change clothes, sleep, or spend extended private time.

Question 12

Will staff or guests be told if an inspection is happening?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the client. Some organisations choose to inform staff or guests in advance, while others prefer a discreet inspection. This is discussed prior to the inspection to ensure it is conducted appropriately and professionally.

Question 13

How do I arrange Privacy Certification?

Accepted Answer

You can contact Insight Investigations to discuss your premises, the areas to be inspected, and the most appropriate scope for your organisation. Each inspection is tailored to the environment and its privacy risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Privacy Certification

Detection Capabilities

If a Device Is Found

Legal & Compliance

Practical Questions

Ready to Get Certified?