How much does a private investigator cost?

How Much Does a Private Investigator Cost?

Most private investigation services are offered at an hourly rate plus expenses. Typically, rates can range anywhere from approximately $60.00 per hour to $140.00 per hour. The rate will depend on the investigation service required and the level of experience of the investigators involved.

Most agencies will provide an estimate for the total cost of the investigation. It is advisable that a budget be established prior to the commencement of the investigation and what investigation tasks will be performed will be predetermined. Private investigators typically work on a similar principal as a lawyer in that a retainer will be required prior to accepting and commencing a case. The retainer amount is usually represents a portion of the estimated budget for an investigation. A service/ retainer agreement that will state the purpose of the investigation to be performed, provide a timeline for when the service will be provided, and a summary of all rates / charges that could or will be incurred in the course of the investigation.

A skilled private investigator is worth the rates they charge. Operations like surveillance should only be conducted by private investigators that are experienced and skilled. The consequences of hiring someone who is not proficient in surveillance can result in a compromised investigation, liability/exposure for the client, and increased cost due to failure or poor results.

We have often have clients come to us after using another private investigation companies that have been unsuccessful or have had their investigations compromised. This has resulted in clients paying for investigations that were not useful and incurring further expenses to have the matter reinvestigated.

There is no private investigation company that can guarantee results, but with preparation, planning, and experience the probability of results is greater.