Website design By BotEap.comIf you are considering using the services of a private investigator, you may be wondering what the cost of hiring an investigator will be. Nationwide, these fees vary by location and type of services. For investigators with extensive experience and training, expect to pay higher fees.
Website design By BotEap.comBefore you hire an investigator, find out all the costs and fees for the services you need. Most professionals offer a free initial consultation. Here are some questions to ask a potential private detective regarding fees:
Website design By BotEap.com1. Does the private investigator charge a flat fee for services?
Website design By BotEap.comSome professionals may quote a flat fee for certain basic services, such as background checks, investigative work, and specialized equipment such as GPS units. Other services that are commonly charged a flat fee include:
- identify a cell phone number (approximately $90)
- vehicle registration search (approximately $20)
- criminal records search (approximately $40)
- House or car “bug sweeps” (about $350)
- GPS monitoring (approximately $250 per week)
Website design By BotEap.com2. What are the hourly rates?
Website design By BotEap.comHourly rates vary based on the location of the investigator, the difficulty of the investigation, and whether the private investigator will need the help of other private investigators.
Website design By BotEap.comNationwide, rates range from $40 to $100 per hour. The average hourly rate is around $50-55 per hour. Please note that there may be additional fees attached to the hourly rate. A common addition is mileage expenses, usually around $0.45 per mile.
Website design By BotEap.comThat hourly rate can increase significantly if the services of another private investigator are needed to complete your case. For example, if your PI requires the assistance of an associate abroad, the hourly rate may be high. In some parts of the world, investigators charge up to $300 per hour.
Website design By BotEap.com3. Does the private investigator require a deposit or down payment in addition to the private investigator fee?
Website design By BotEap.comMany investigators require an advance or deposit to be applied against fees for services rendered and expenses. Some professionals may set retainer fees based on specific services. For example, data research may require a deposit of $500 while an infidelity case may require a deposit of up to $5,000. Criminal defense work may require a retainer of $1,000-3,500. The following factors determine the amount of deposits required:
- travel involved
- airline/hotel costs
- estimated number of surveillance hours
- rent
- urgency
Website design By BotEap.comIf you use the services of an investigator through a lawyer, the private investigator will generally not ask for a retainer as long as the lawyer acknowledges responsibility for ensuring payment of bills.
Website design By BotEap.comOnce you hire an IP, make sure the investigator keeps track of your activities and ask for detailed lists of work that has been completed. Do not forget to sign a contract with the investigator detailing in writing the services to be performed.
