Research ethics
Clear boundaries. Responsible research.
Lawful sources, not shortcuts
We use lawfully accessible public data, archive material and client-provided information within an agreed purpose. Public availability does not remove UK GDPR obligations. We minimise personal data, record source provenance and avoid collecting material unrelated to the question.
Permission before property work
Property and holiday-home reviews require client authority and agreed access. We review visible risks and offer proportionate recommendations. We do not conduct covert monitoring or continuous surveillance, and our advice is not a building survey, police service or guarantee of security.
What we will not do
No hacking, access to restricted accounts, doxxing, intrusive tracing of living people, facial recognition, unlawful covert monitoring or deception to obtain private data. No work without a lawful purpose, no government affiliation and no guaranteed outcomes.
Evidence has limits
Reports distinguish verified findings, unverified claims, inference and risk indicators. We document gaps, limitations and dates. A discrepancy is not proof of wrongdoing; we avoid unsupported allegations and recommend proportionate next steps.
CCTV planning and privacy
CCTV advice considers coverage, necessity, proportionality, neighbouring property and public spaces. Operators must check applicable UK GDPR, Data Protection Act and current ICO guidance, including lawful basis, signage/transparency, secure access, retention, rights requests and whether an ICO fee or DPIA is required. Domestic exemptions may not apply where cameras capture beyond the property boundary. Avoid unnecessary audio recording and intrusive views. Specialist installation and tailored legal advice should be obtained where needed; we do not certify compliance.
Official guidance
Guidance and legislation can change. This page is not legal advice. See our privacy policy.