FAQ — Allstate Private Investigations

Question 1

Is Allstate Private Investigations licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Allstate Private Investigations, Inc. holds California PI licenses #20742 and #189318. All of our investigators are licensed and insured in the state of California.

Question 2

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Simply call or text us at (805) 579-8184 (Simi Valley) or (818) 717-9100 (San Fernando Valley), or fill out our online contact form. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and recommend the best course of action.

Question 3

Is my case kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of our practice. All case details, client identities, and investigation findings are kept strictly private. We will never disclose your information to any third party without your explicit consent.

Question 4

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve the greater Southern California area including Simi Valley, Moorpark, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Newbury Park, Oxnard, Ventura, Malibu, Los Angeles, Woodland Hills, Beverly Hills, Chatsworth, and surrounding communities.

Question 5

How much does a private investigator cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary depending on the type and complexity of the investigation. We offer competitive rates and will provide a clear estimate during your free consultation. Pre-employment background checks start at $150. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Question 6

What types of cases do you handle?

Accepted Answer

We handle a wide range of cases including domestic investigations (infidelity, child custody), corporate investigations (employee theft, fraud, workplace misconduct), skip tracing and locating missing persons, pre-employment background checks, bug sweeps (TSCM), and general private investigation services.

Question 7

Can surveillance evidence be used in court?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Evidence gathered by a licensed private investigator using legal methods is generally admissible in court. Our investigators are trained to document findings in a manner that meets legal standards, and we can provide testimony if required.

Question 8

How long does a surveillance investigation take?

Accepted Answer

The duration depends on the complexity of the case and the subject's activity patterns. Some cases are resolved in a single day; others may require several days or weeks of observation. We will keep you informed throughout the process and work as efficiently as possible.

Question 9

Will the subject know they are being investigated?

Accepted Answer

No. Our investigators are trained in covert surveillance techniques and take every precaution to ensure the subject is unaware of the investigation. Discretion is paramount in everything we do.

Question 10

What is a bug sweep?

Accepted Answer

A bug sweep, or Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM) inspection, is a thorough examination of a location or vehicle for hidden listening devices, cameras, GPS trackers, or other covert surveillance equipment. We use professional-grade equipment including the MESA 2.0 spectrum analyzer.

Question 11

How do I know if I need a bug sweep?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include unexplained knowledge of private conversations, unusual sounds on phone calls, unfamiliar vehicles parked near your home or office, or a general feeling that you are being monitored. If you have any concerns, a professional sweep can provide peace of mind.

Question 12

How long does a bug sweep take?

Accepted Answer

A typical residential sweep takes 2–4 hours depending on the size of the property. Commercial sweeps may take longer. We conduct a thorough inspection of all rooms, vehicles, and electronic devices as requested.

Question 13

What does a pre-employment background check include?

Accepted Answer

Our standard pre-employment background check package starts at $150 and covers criminal history, employment verification, education verification, reference checks, and more. Downloadable authorization forms are available on our Pre-Employment Backgrounds page.

Question 14

Can you locate a missing person?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our skip tracing services have a strong track record of locating individuals. Whether you are searching for a missing family member, a lost contact, or need to serve legal documents, we have the tools and experience to find them.

Question 15

Is skip tracing legal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when conducted by a licensed private investigator for lawful purposes. We strictly adhere to all applicable state and federal laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and California privacy statutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Surveillance & Investigations

Bug Sweeps (TSCM)

Background Checks & Locating People

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