If you are thinking of using the services of a private investigator, you may be wondering how much it will cost to hire an investigator. Across the country, these rates vary by location and type of services. For investigators with extensive experience and training, expect to pay higher fees.

Before 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:

1. Does the private investigator charge a flat fee for services?

Some 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 record search (approximately $40)
• house or car “bug sweeps” (approximately $350)
• GPS monitoring (approximately $250 per week)

2. What are the hourly rates?

Hourly rates vary depending on the location of the investigator, the difficulty of the investigation, and whether the private investigator will need the help of other private investigators.

Across the country, 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 charges, usually around $0.45 per mile.

That hourly rate can increase significantly if the services of another private investigator are needed to complete your case. For example, if your PI needs the assistance of an overseas associate, the hourly rate may be high. In some parts of the world, investigators charge up to $300 an hour.

3. Does the private investigator require a deposit or retainer in addition to the private investigator fees?

Many investigators require that an advance or deposit be applied against fees for services rendered and expenses. Some professionals may set retainer fees based on specific services. For example, data investigation may require a deposit of $500 while a case of infidelity 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
• to lease
• urgency

If you use the services of an investigator through an attorney, the private investigator will generally not request an advance as long as the attorney acknowledges responsibility for ensuring payment of the bills.

Once you hire an IP, make sure the investigator keeps a log of their activities and ask for detailed lists of work that has been completed. Do not forget to sign a contract with the researcher detailing in writing the services to be performed.