Do you need a private investigator in Amsterdam?

Are you looking for a private investigator in AmsterdamIf so, you are not alone. More and more private individuals and businesses are hiring private investigation agencies — because the police, due to a lack of capacity, cannot always provide the assistance a situation requires, and because some matters call for a discreet, swift, and legally sound approach. Strongwood is a certified detective agency with extensive experience in Amsterdam and the surrounding area. In this article, you will read when you can hire a private detective, what to expect, and how Strongwood can help you.

Why hire a private detective in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a city with a unique character: a diverse population, international business traffic, and — unfortunately — also organized crime and complex fraud structures. In many cases, a local private investigator with thorough knowledge of the Amsterdam area is more effective than a nationally operating agency that does not know the city.

Three concrete benefits of an Amsterdam private detective:

• Local knowledge – Insight into neighborhoods, infrastructure, and local networks yields faster results in observations and OSINT research.
• International experience – Amsterdam is an international hub. Cases with cross-border elements require detective work with foreign expertise. Strongwood investigators have carried out assignments in multiple countries.
• Rapid deployment – A local detective can be on the scene within a short time in emergencies — crucial for surveillance assignments where timing is everything.

Has the police not taken up your case, or is a civil file stalled? A private investigator from Strongwood takes your case seriously and delivers tangible results.

What can a private detective in Amsterdam do for you?

Private investigation work is always custom work. Every case is different and requires a unique approach. Below you will find the most requested services that Strongwood offers in Amsterdam and the surrounding region.

Observation and research in Amsterdam

Observation is often the core of a successful investigation. A certified detective follows and documents the behavior of a person in publicly accessible places — fully in line with the Private Security Organizations and Detective Agencies Act (Wpbr) and the GDPR. The collected images and reports can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.

Proving infidelity

Do you doubt your partner's fidelity? A research into infidelity brings clarity. Our detectives discreetly and professionally gather evidence — photos, videos, and a detailed report — so that you know where you stand and can take legal action if desired.

Partner alimony investigation

Are you still paying spousal maintenance while you suspect that your ex is cohabiting with a new partner? That may be grounds for termination of the maintenance obligation. spousal maintenance research Strongwood provides a legally watertight overview of cohabitation. Our report is structured for use by your lawyer and is accepted by Dutch judges.

Blackmail, threats and extortion

Are you being blackmailed or threatened? At investigation into blackmail and extortion Our detectives map out the perpetrator's identity and network via OSINT, digital forensic analysis, and observation. We work closely with lawyers and — where applicable — with investigative authorities.

Fraud and theft investigation

Do you have a suspicion of internal theft or corporate fraudDo not wait too long. The sooner an investigation is started, the greater the chance of usable evidence. Strongwood conducts discreet fraud investigations for SMEs and larger organizations in Amsterdam and the Metropolitan Area.

Sickness absence study

An employee reports sick, but you have well-founded doubts about the legitimacy of the sick leave? A absence investigation lawfully establishes whether the incapacity for work actually exists. Our report is legally usable and complies with the Code of Conduct for Personal Investigations.

Non-compete clause and industrial espionage

If a (former) employee violates a non-competition clause or is confidential business information slipping away to competitors? Strongwood investigates this discreetly and provides a report that you can use in employment proceedings or summary proceedings.

International investigations

Amsterdam is an international city. Does your business have a cross-border character? Strongwood also operates research outside the Netherlands out. Our detectives have experience in multiple countries and speak multiple languages.

Housing fraud investigation

Amsterdam is dealing with a persistent problem of housing fraud: illegal subletting, underoccupied social housing, and address fraud. Housing corporations and landlords engage Strongwood to quickly and demonstrably map this out.

How does a certified detective agency in Amsterdam work?

A private detective agency in the Netherlands must possess a valid POB number, issued by the Ministry of Justice and Security via Justis. All researchers are in possession of a personal identification document (the so-called 'yellow pass') and the mandatory SVPB diploma. Strongwood operates in full compliance with the Wpbr, the GDPR, and the sector-specific POB Privacy Code of Conduct.

Each investigation follows fixed steps:

1. No-obligation intake – You discuss your situation with one of our specialists. We assess whether an investigation is feasible and legally defensible.
2. Research plan – We determine in writing which methods are employed, why they are proportionate, and what the expected lead time is.
3. Performance – Observation, OSINT, digital forensic investigation, or a combination, depending on your case.
4. Reporting – You will receive a detailed, objective report containing findings, evidence, and conclusions. This report is immediately usable by your lawyer or in legal proceedings.

How much does a private detective cost in Amsterdam?

The cost of a private detective in Amsterdam depends on the nature and complexity of the case. There is no standard rate that applies to everyone. Factors that determine the price:

• The type of investigation (observation, OSINT, digital forensic investigation)
• The number of required detectors and equipment
• The expected turnaround time and the number of observation moments
• The use of technical aids

Going rates for private investigation work in the Netherlands are generally between €75 and €150 per hour per researcher, excluding additional costs such as travel expenses and technical equipment. Some agencies offer fixed prices per type of research. Always ask for a transparent quote in advance.

At Strongwood, you always assess your case first. free of charge and without obligation. This way, you know exactly where you stand before making a decision. Contact us today.

When is the police not the solution?

Legally, the police have priorities and limitations. In civil matters—such as a dispute over alimony, suspicions of infidelity, an employee violating a non-compete clause, or business fraud that has not been reported—the police generally do not intervene. A private detective fills precisely that gap.

Furthermore, it is important to note that evidence you collect yourself or have collected by a non-certified agency is often not accepted by judges. Strongwood's reports are prepared in accordance with legal requirements and are actually usable in legal proceedings. That is the difference a certified agency makes.

Why choose Strongwood as your private detective in Amsterdam?

Strongwood is not an average detective agency. Our detectives have backgrounds in specialized government departments and the private sector, both in the Netherlands and internationally. This gives us an edge over agencies without that operational experience.

• Certified and licensed – Valid POB number, all researchers with yellow pass and SVPB diploma.
• Proven track record – Annual refresher training in OSINT, observation (OBSO), and driving skills.
• Local and international – Amsterdam knows no boundaries for Strongwood.
• GDPR-compliant – All investigations are conducted in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Act and the POB Privacy Code of Conduct.
• Legally strong reports – Useful for lawyers, bailiffs, insurers, and the judge.
• Discreet and confidential – Your privacy and that of those involved comes first.

Help for lawyers, bailiffs and insurers

In addition to private individuals, Strongwood also works with professional parties. Law firms, insurance companies, and bailiffs engage us when a case stalls or when additional evidence is needed to move a case forward. A swift and discreet investigative inquiry can make the difference between a procedure dragging on for years and a quick breakthrough.

Are you a professional and would you like to discuss a long-term collaboration? Contact Strongwood for the possibilities.

Frequently asked questions about a private detective in Amsterdam

Is hiring a private detective legal in the Netherlands?

Yes. Private investigation work is fully legal in the Netherlands, provided the agency holds a valid license (POB number) and all investigators are certified. Strongwood complies with all legal requirements. You can find more information on the website of Justis.

Can a private investigator gather evidence for the judge?

Yes, provided the evidence has been collected in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Reports from certified detective agencies such as Strongwood are accepted by Dutch judges as evidence.

How soon can Strongwood start in Amsterdam?

After the no-obligation intake and the finalization of the assignment, we can start within a few working days in most cases. For urgent assignments, we discuss the possibilities immediately.

What if my case also takes place outside Amsterdam?

No problem. Strongwood operates throughout the Netherlands and also carries international studies out.

Contact Strongwood – without obligation and confidentially

Do you have a case that requires an external, professional perspective? Are you unsure whether hiring a private detective in Amsterdam is the right step? Then contact Strongwood without obligation. Our specialists will assess your situation free of charge and tell you honestly what the possibilities are — and what is not feasible.

Request a free case review via strongwood.nl/contact or call us directly. Every case is different. Strongwood provides the custom solution your situation deserves.