How Much Does A Private Investigator Cost
People often ask, “How much does a private investigator cost?” This question usually comes up early in our consultations. The simple answer is, “It depends on what service you need and what you want to achieve.”
First, many factors influence the final cost. For example, the complexity and duration of the case play a big role. Additionally, the resources needed and the specific services you request will affect the price.
Next, read the information below. Then, contact us for an accurate and honest consultation tailored to your case. Finally, do not choose an agency based solely on cost. Instead, consider the quality and reliability of their services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Much Does a Private Investigator Cost?
People often ask, “How much does a private investigator cost?” Generally, fees start at $120 per hour. However, several factors impact the final cost. For instance, the complexity of the case, location, and the investigator’s experience level all play a role. Below, we outline some guidelines and approximations for different types of investigations:
Surveillance: Typically, surveillance rates start at $120 per hour, plus a small fee for travel and case preparation. Additionally, if you want a formal report or video evidence, extra costs may apply. Other expenses, like disbursements while the investigator is conducting the job, are passed on at cost.
Electronic Bug Sweeps: This service is highly technical and expensive to maintain. We have top TSCM experts and equipment worth over $300,000. Because our experts are formally trained, this service is costly. For example, a security sweep of a house might cost thousands of dollars, depending on the size and location. Moreover, a corporate office could cost even more. We provide this service in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Melbourne.
Background Checks: These typically cost upwards of $1,500.
Locate Investigations: These can cost anywhere from $750 to $1,500 on average. However, more difficult cases may cost more as they take time to exhaust all avenues and leads.
Mobile Phone Forensics: We offer forensic spyware detection and evidence recovery from mobile devices. Costs generally range from $1,200 to $1,600. We use the same forensic software as the Australian Federal Police and FBI to recover evidence.
2. What Factors Affect the Cost of a Private Investigator?
Several factors affect the cost. First, the type of service is the most significant factor. Additionally, the location and the investigator’s experience and skill level also impact the cost.
3. Are There Any Additional Costs Associated with Hiring a Private Investigator?
Yes, besides the investigator’s hourly rate, additional expenses such as mileage, airfare, hotel stays, and parking may apply.
4. Do You Offer Payment Plans?
Currently, we do not offer payment plans. However, we are discussing options with our merchant provider to possibly allow clients to pay off an investigation over time.
5. Can I Negotiate the Costs with a Private Investigator?
Yes, you can negotiate costs. This may be possible for large jobs or customised services. We always strive to work within our clients’ budgets. However, if the budget is too low, there is a limit where we can no longer provide a quality investigation. In such cases, we may have to decline the job.
How do our costs compare to others?
Spouse Spy is not the cheapest investigation company, nor are we the most expensive. Do not choose an investigation company based on cost alone. Generally, the ones advertising as the cheapest have a reason for it. They often lack the resources or skills to handle your case competently.
Over the years, we have built up our resources to become a leader in this field. Whether it’s access to databases or investing in new equipment and training, we have not cut corners. And that costs money.
If you are comparing our costs to others, that’s okay. Just make sure you have been consulted professionally and honestly. We will not match the prices of others because you cannot compare us to others. The outcome of an investigation can vary greatly if it is done cheaply or with fewer resources. We pride ourselves on providing quality investigations to our customers.
Private investigations can range anywhere from $500 to $100,000 or more and will mostly depend on how long the investigation takes.
Make your decision based on your consultation with the investigator from that company, and then consider the costs.