Suspicion weighs heavily in any relationship. When trust starts to disintegrate — whether for changes in behavior, financial secrets or emotional disconnection — there is often a middle ground between confrontation and silence that many of us find impossible to navigate. But in Singapore, where the legal and emotional repercussions of infidelity can be life changing, hiring a matrimonial private eye can offer a clandestine and legal route to the truth.
This article explores what matrimonial investigation in Singapore is really like – why people might seek it out, what you’re getting yourself into if you’re considering it, how much it costs and a bit about how private surveillance comes into play in the law in Singapore. Along the way, we’ll also introduce Baker Street Private Investigator (BSPI)—a trusted name in the local industry of private investigation.
Why Hire a Matrimonial Private Investigator in Singapore?
Singapore is among the few countries where adultery can be cited as legal grounds for divorce. But suspicion is not enough in court. Hard evidence, which may involve surveillance footage, photos or third-party testimony, might be necessary to corroborate allegations.
This is the area of a matrimonial private investigator. When feelings are getting in the way of making sound decisions, then turn to the seasoned investigator who can objectively observe, document and assess the facts.
People in Singapore typically seek matrimonial investigations for the following reasons:
- Infidelity or Adultery: One of the most common motivations. Whether it’s unexplained absences, guarded phone behaviour, or a sudden change in intimacy levels, partners may want to verify if a spouse is being unfaithful.
- Hidden Assets or Financial Deception: In divorce proceedings, especially those involving property, alimony, or child support, one party may suspect the other of concealing assets or falsifying income. Investigators can help verify financial activity through legal means.
- Child Custody Concerns: A parent may wish to document a spouse’s behaviour or lifestyle to support a custody claim, especially if there are concerns about neglect, substance abuse, or unsuitability of living conditions.
- Pre-Marital Checks: Some clients request background investigations before getting married. This can involve checking for past marriages, criminal records, or debts that were not disclosed.
While many people are hesitant to initiate surveillance on someone they once trusted, they often find that the truth—whatever it may be—gives them the confidence to move forward.
What Are the Typical Fees for a Matrimonial Private Investigator?
Understanding the costs of hiring a private investigator is crucial before making a decision. Prices can vary widely depending on the complexity, duration, and risk involved in each case.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Hourly Rates
Most investigators operate on an hourly basis. In Singapore, the going rate for matrimonial surveillance ranges from SGD 100 to SGD 250 per hour. This typically includes time spent on actual surveillance, travel, documentation, and analysis.
Flat Packages
Some investigation agencies offer fixed packages for specific scenarios—for example, two days of surveillance for a suspected affair. These packages might cost between SGD 1,000 and SGD 3,500, depending on the inclusions (e.g. number of investigators, hours per day, equipment used).
Disbursements and Equipment
Additional costs may be incurred for specialised tools such as long-lens cameras, GPS trackers (where legally allowed), or undercover assignments. Transportation, lodging (if surveillance occurs overseas), and data recovery tools may also add to the bill.
Court-Ready Reports
If a full report suitable for legal proceedings is required, this may involve an added fee—particularly if the investigator is required to testify in court as a witness. The best firms offer transparent pricing with itemised estimates. They believe in clarity and ensure that clients are not surprised by hidden charges later.
How Long Does a Matrimonial Investigation Take?
One of the most common questions clients ask is, “How long will it take to get results?” Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
The duration of a matrimonial investigation depends on several factors:
- Client Objectives: Some clients want to confirm a specific suspicion (e.g. “Is my spouse seeing someone every Thursday night?”), which may only require targeted surveillance. Others want broader confirmation over weeks or months.
- Spouse’s Schedule and Behaviour: If the subject has an irregular routine or takes great care to hide activities, the investigation may take longer.
- Level of Evidence Needed: A single photo may not be enough. To stand up in court, investigators often collect multiple forms of evidence (video, timestamps, witness logs) across several instances.
General Timelines
- Short-term investigations (1–3 days) are often used to confirm suspicions during a specific event, such as a work trip.
- Medium-term investigations (1–2 weeks) help establish behavioural patterns and confirm regular meetings or rendezvous.
- Long-term surveillance (3–6 weeks or longer) is required when more comprehensive evidence is needed, particularly in contentious divorce or custody battles.
How Private Is Matrimonial Surveillance in Singapore?
Privacy is a major concern when hiring a Singapore private investigator for matrimonial cases. Clients often worry: Will this be discreet? Will I get in trouble for watching my own spouse? Let’s address those concerns with clarity.
Legal Boundaries
In Singapore, private investigators must be licensed under the Private Security Industry Act and regulated by the Police Licensing & Regulatory Department (PLRD). Operating outside this framework is not only illegal—it could jeopardise the entire case. Licensed investigators operate strictly within the law. They do not use illegal methods such as phone tapping, hacking, or entering private property without permission.
Discretion in Execution
Surveillance activities are conducted with utmost care to prevent alerting the subject. Investigators blend into crowds, use unmarked vehicles, and document from public spaces. Digital communication with clients is also encrypted and confidential.
Report Confidentiality
All reports, photos, and videos obtained during a matrimonial investigation are kept strictly confidential and are only shared with the client. If needed, these materials can be formatted for presentation in court and backed with testimony from the investigator.
Clients can rest assured that their privacy is respected at every stage—from the initial consultation to the closing of the case.
The Role of Baker Street Private Investigator in Matrimonial Cases
While there are many agencies offering matrimonial investigation services, Baker Street Private Investigator stands out due to its experience, discretion, and legal expertise.
The firm has handled a wide range of domestic cases, from discreet infidelity checks to complex investigations involving offshore surveillance and multi-layered financial deception. Their approach is grounded in ethical practices, and their team includes investigators with backgrounds in law enforcement, military intelligence, and legal support services.
Clients appreciate BSPI because they provide:
- Clear communication and regular updates
- Detailed reporting that is court-admissible
- Strict confidentiality and adherence to local regulations
- Empathy and professionalism during emotionally sensitive cases
Their matrimonial services are tailored to the client’s needs—whether that’s closure, legal evidence, or simply peace of mind.
When Knowing Is Better Than Wondering
Not every suspicion turns out to be true—but the weight of not knowing can be just as damaging as betrayal itself. When doubt begins to affect one’s well-being, relationships, or ability to make legal decisions, hiring a matrimonial private investigator offers a clear path forward.
Whether you’re seeking evidence for divorce, safeguarding your children’s interests, or simply seeking the truth, professional investigators can provide factual, reliable answers safely and discreetly.
Private investigative agencies like Baker Street Private Investigator combine legal compliance with emotional intelligence—helping clients navigate one of life’s most difficult challenges with clarity and dignity.