Ethics and Professional Conduct
Introduction
At the heart of the Irish Professional Private Investigators Association (IPPIA) is our unwavering commitment to integrity, legality, and client trust.
All members of IPPIA agree to abide by a clear and enforceable Code of Ethics for Professional Conduct. This ensures consistent, lawful, and respectful practice across the industry, while also protecting clients, the public, and the reputation of the profession.
Code of Ethics
Approved by the IPPIA Committee on 22 June 2024
As members of the Irish Professional Private Investigations Association, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethics in our practice. This Code of Ethics serves as a guideline for our behaviour and interactions within the association and with our clients and the public.
1. Professional Integrity
1.1. Members shall conduct themselves with honesty, integrity, and transparency at all times.
1.2. Members shall not engage in any deceptive or fraudulent practices in the course of their investigations.
2. Confidentiality
2.1. Members shall respect the confidentiality of information obtained during investigations and shall not disclose it to anyone without proper authorisation.
2.2. Members shall take all necessary measures to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of their clients.
3. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
3.1. Members shall maintain an active private investigator licence issued by the Private Security Authority.
3.2. Members shall comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards in the conduct of their investigations.
3.3. Members shall not engage in any activities that are illegal or unethical.
4. Impartiality and Objectivity
4.1. Members shall conduct their investigations impartially and without bias, ensuring that all relevant facts and evidence are considered.
4.2. Members shall not allow personal or external influences to compromise the objectivity of their investigations.
5. Professional Competence
5.1. Members shall maintain and enhance their professional competence through continuous education and training.
5.2. Members shall only undertake investigations that fall within their areas of expertise and competence.
6. Conflict of Interest
6.1. Members shall avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential conflicts to their clients or the association.
6.2. Members shall not use their position for personal gain or to benefit a third party at the expense of their clients or the association.
Compliance is Not Optional
IPPIA’s Ethics Committee has the authority to:
- Review allegations of misconduct
- Issue warnings, suspend, or expel members who violate this Code
- Refer matters to regulatory authorities where appropriate
Violations may lead to:
- Removal of membership
- Public notice (where appropriate)
- Ineligibility to rejoin the association without corrective action
Whistleblower Protection
Members who report misconduct are protected from retaliation. We value transparency and the courage to uphold ethical standards, even in difficult situations.
Need to Raise a Concern?
If you believe an IPPIA member has breached the Code of Ethics: