A background check can mean anything from a quick Google search to an official DBS check. What you’re allowed to do, and what you need consent for, depends on the purpose. This guide explains the different types of background checks in the UK, how they work, legal considerations, and practical guidance for personal, professional, or business use.
Importance of Background Checks
Background checks provide verification and reassurance in situations such as employment or personal safety. They help check things like identity, employment history and even criminal records. Carrying out these checks responsibly also protects against legal or financial risk and ensures compliance with UK laws, including GDPR and the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.
Types of Background Checks
Background checks fall into informal personal checks and formal legal checks. Understanding the differences clarifies what is publicly accessible and what requires consent.
Informal / Personal Background Checks
These checks rely on public information and generally do not require consent.
Social Media Checks: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms for professional or personal context.
Google Searches: Search the person’s name along with location, occupation, or company.
Image Reverse Search: Verify that profile photos are genuine.
Public Records:
- Companies House for director and company filings
- Insolvency Register for bankruptcies or debt arrangements
- County Court Judgments for financial judgments
Formal / Legal Background Checks
These checks require consent and must be conducted through official or accredited channels.
- DBS Checks (Basic, Standard, Enhanced)
- Right to Work Checks
- Credit Checks (for tenancy or employment purposes)
- Criminal Record Checks through accredited bodies
The following table summarises the main types of background checks and verifications, outlining whether consent is required, the information each check reveals, and who is authorised to run them:
| Type | Consent Required | What It Shows | Who Can Run It |
| Google & Social | No | Public information | Anyone |
| Basic DBS | Yes | Unspent convictions | Employers |
| Enhanced DBS | Yes | Full criminal history, barred lists | Regulated roles |
| Right to Work | Yes | Legal employment eligibility | Employers |
| Credit Check | Yes | Financial standing | Landlords, employers |
Common Reasons People Conduct Background Checks
Background checks have become an important part of decision-making. They provide insights into someone’s history, helping to reduce risk and make informed choices. Some of the most common reasons people conduct background checks include:
1. Employment Screening
Employers run background checks to verify a candidate’s employment history, education, and criminal record. This helps make sure that new hires are trustworthy and qualified for the role.
2. Tenant Screening
Landlords use background checks to evaluate potential tenants. Checking rental history, credit scores, and criminal records can help prevent problematic tenancies.
3. Personal Relationships
Individuals sometimes conduct background checks before entering into personal relationships or business partnerships. Knowing someone’s history can help build trust and avoid potential issues.
4. Financial Decisions
Background checks can be used to assess creditworthiness or verify financial history, which is particularly important for lenders, investors, or joint financial arrangements.
5. Legal Requirements
Certain professions, such as healthcare, finance, and childcare, require mandatory background checks to comply with industry regulations and safety standards.
Steps to Conduct a Background Check
Step 1– Define the Purpose: Determine if the check is for personal safety, employment, tenancy, or business verification.
For example, a business may want to background check a new client.
Step 2- Confirm Consent Requirements: Formal checks require consent. Public information generally does not.
Step 3- Begin with Public Records: You can trace someone using Companies House, Insolvency Register, County Court Judgments, and social media platforms.
Step 4- Verify Identity: Use full name, date of birth, and location to confirm the correct individual.
Step 5- Conduct Formal Checks: Use accredited services for DBS, credit, and criminal record checks as needed.
Step 6- Retain Information Securely: Only store data necessary for the purpose and follow GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 guidelines.
Scenario-Based Guidance
The following guidance provides scenario-based recommendations for carrying out various checks, highlighting best practices, consent requirements, and how to verify information accurately across different contexts:
Personal Safety and Dating
- Use public records and online profiles.
- Direct questioning can clarify details.
- Avoid relying on unverified information.
Employment Checks
- Right to Work verification, references, and qualifications are common.
- DBS and credit checks require consent.
- Confirm identity details carefully.
Landlord and Tenant Checks
- Review tenancy references and Right to Rent eligibility.
- Credit checks require explicit permission.
- Cross-check public information for accuracy.
Business Owner or Director Checks
- Companies House and Insolvency Register reveal business roles and financial status.
- Consent is not required for public filings.
- Verify identities to avoid confusion with similarly named individuals.
Is It Legal to Run a Background Check?
Before conducting any background check, it’s important to understand the legal framework that governs the collection and use of personal information. Certain laws and regulations set clear boundaries to protect individuals’ privacy and ensure that sensitive data is handled appropriately:
- GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018: Personal data must be relevant, stored securely, and processed fairly.
- Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974: Some spent convictions are legally protected and cannot be disclosed through standard checks.
- Limits Without Consent: Accessing criminal records, credit history, detailed financial or medical records, or employment verification without permission is prohibited.=
Attempting to obtain restricted information without proper consent can result in serious legal consequences.
Background Checks by Global Investigations
For cases where thorough, reliable insight is needed beyond basic public searches, working with a specialist background checking provider can add depth, expertise and legal compliance to the process.
Global Investigations offers in-depth background check services tailored to a range of personal and business needs that standard searches may miss. Our experienced private investigators use rigorous methods to deliver accurate, confidential reports that support informed decision‑making while respecting legal and ethical standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a background check on someone without them knowing?
Public information can be reviewed without consent. Criminal, credit, or employment checks require permission.
What shows up on a Basic DBS check?
A Basic DBS check displays unspent convictions that have not been legally spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.
Are online background check sites accurate?
Free or unregulated sites may provide incomplete or outdated information. Official records and accredited services are more reliable.
How far back do criminal background checks go?
It depends on the type of check. Basic DBS checks only show unspent convictions. Enhanced checks may include spent convictions for regulated roles.
Can I check someone’s criminal record for free?
No. Criminal records must be accessed through the Disclosure and Barring Service or another authorised provider.