Terms and Conditions

Last Updated: 16-01-2026

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern the use of the website and services provided by Sleuth Investigative Services (“the Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), a private investigation firm operating in the Republic of South Africa. By accessing our website or engaging our services, you (“the Client,” “you,” or “your”) agree to be bound by these Terms.

1. Scope of Services

1.1 The Company provides private investigation and related services, including but not limited to surveillance, background checks, fraud investigations, corporate investigations, and information gathering, strictly within the bounds of South African law.
1.2 All services are provided based on the information supplied by the Client and the lawful authority granted to the Company.

2. Legal Compliance

2.1 The Company conducts all investigations in compliance with applicable South African legislation, including but not limited to:

The Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013 (POPIA)
The Private Security Industry Regulation Act, 2001 (where applicable)
The Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act (RICA)
Common law principles governing privacy and evidence

2.2 The Company will not engage in unlawful activities, including illegal surveillance, phone tapping, hacking, trespassing, or impersonation.

3. Client Obligations

3.1 The Client warrants that all information provided to the Company is accurate, complete, and lawful.
3.2 The Client confirms that they have a legitimate interest and legal standing in requesting the investigation.
3.3 The Client agrees not to use the Company’s services or findings for unlawful, defamatory, or malicious purposes.

4. Confidentiality

4.1 The Company treats all Client information and investigation details as strictly confidential.
4.2 Information will not be disclosed to third parties without the Client’s consent, except where required by law, court order, or regulatory authority.
4.3 The Client acknowledges that absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where legal obligations require disclosure.

5. Fees and Payment

5.1 Fees are agreed upon prior to commencement of services and may be charged on an hourly, retainer, or fixed-fee basis.
5.2 All invoices are payable within the time period stated on the invoice.
5.3 The Company reserves the right to suspend or terminate services for non-payment.
5.4 Fees already paid are non-refundable once investigative work has commenced, unless otherwise agreed in writing.

6. No Guarantee of Outcome

6.1 The Company does not guarantee specific results or outcomes from any investigation.
6.2 Findings are based on available information, lawful methods, and factual observations at the time of investigation.

7. Reports and Evidence

7.1 Any reports, photographs, videos, or documentation provided remain the intellectual property of the Company until full payment is received.
7.2 Upon payment, the Client is granted a non-transferable right to use the material for lawful purposes only.
7.3 The Company does not guarantee admissibility of evidence in court, as this is determined solely by judicial authorities.

8. Limitation of Liability

8.1 To the maximum extent permitted by South African law, the Company shall not be liable for:

Indirect or consequential losses
Decisions made by the Client based on investigation findings
Actions taken by third parties

8.2 The Company’s total liability, if any, shall be limited to the fees paid by the Client for the specific service in question.

9. Indemnity

The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its employees, and agents from any claims, damages, or legal costs arising from:

Misuse of investigation results
False or misleading information provided by the Client
Unlawful instructions or purposes

10. Termination of Services

10.1 Either party may terminate the agreement in writing.
10.2 The Company reserves the right to terminate services immediately if:

The Client requests unlawful activities
Continuing the investigation would breach the law or ethical standards

10.3 Fees incurred up to the termination date remain payable.

11. Website Use

11.1 Content on this website is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
11.2 Unauthorized use, copying, or reproduction of website content is prohibited.

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of South African courts.

13. Amendments

The Company reserves the right to update or amend these Terms at any time. Continued use of the website or services constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.

14. Contact Information

For questions regarding these Terms and Conditions or our services, please contact:

Sleuth Investigative Services
Email: info@sleuthjhb.co.za
Phone: 072 991 0353
Location: South Africa