Hiring a private investigator is a great way to get answers to important questions. They can help with everything from infidelity cases to locating missing persons. But how much does a private detective cost?

The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The cost of hiring a private investigator will vary depending on the specific case and the services required. For example, a simple background check will likely cost less than a more complex investigation that involves surveillance and tracking.

In order to get a rough calculation whether or not you can afford to hire a private investigator, here are some factors to consider in knowing the price of their services offered:

7 Factors That Determine the Cost of Hiring a Private Investigator

1. The Type of Investigation

When it comes to the cost of hiring a private investigator, the type of investigation will be one of the biggest determining factors. A simple background check is going to cost significantly less than a more complex investigation that requires surveillance, tracking, and other high-tech methods.

There are different types of investigations that a private investigator can conduct. Here are some of the most common:

• Background check: A standard background check will usually cost between $2800 and $3500. This will include a search of public records to find information on someone’s criminal history, employment history, education, etc.
• Infidelity investigation: An infidelity investigation can range anywhere from $1,000 upwards. The cost will depend on the specific services required, such as surveillance, tracking, and covert monitoring.
• Child custody investigation: A child custody investigation will typically cost from $3,000 upwards. This is a complex investigation that may require surveillance, tracking, and interviews with witnesses.

2. The Location of the Investigation

The location of the investigation can also impact the cost of hiring a private investigator. If the investigation is taking place in a small town, it will likely be less expensive than if it were taking place in a large city. This is because private investigators usually charge more for their services in larger cities due to the increased cost of living. For example, you can check the cost in Melbourne.

That’s why it’s best to hire a private investigator near the location of the investigation to minimize travel expenses. 

3. The Length of the Investigation

The length of the investigation is another important factor to consider when calculating the cost. A longer investigation will obviously cost more than a shorter one. This is because private investigators usually charge by the hour, with rates ranging anywhere from $90 to $200 per hour.

Of course, it would depend on how many hours the private investigator works on the case. For example, if they only work on the case for 10 hours, then the total cost would be much lower than if they worked on the case for 100 hours.

4. The Complexity of the Investigation

The complexity of the investigation is also a major factor in determining the cost. A more complex investigation will require more time, resources, and manpower, which will all add to the final bill. If you’re curious about what a private investigator does in such cases, find more here.

For example, a simple background check will likely only require the private investigator to do a search of public records. But if the investigation is more complex, such as an infidelity case, the private investigator may need to do surveillance, tracking, and covert monitoring. All of these services will add to the final cost.

To ensure that you are getting the best value for your money, it’s important to hire a private investigator who is experienced in handling complex investigations.

5. The Number of Investigators Working on the Case

The number of investigators working on the case is another important factor to consider when calculating the cost. If only one investigator is working on the case, then the cost will be lower than if multiple investigators are working on the case.

This is because private investigators usually charge by the hour, and adding more investigators to the case will obviously increase the number of hours worked.

6. Additional Services

In some cases, private investigators may offer additional services that can add to the final cost. For example, some private investigators offer GPS tracking services, which can be used to track someone’s movements.

Other private investigators may offer wiretapping services, which can be used to listen in on phone conversations. These additional services will obviously add to the final cost of the investigation. If you think about it, this could become costly for the private investigator.

7. The Number of Investigators Required

Another thing that can impact the cost is the number of investigators required for the case. In some cases, one investigator may be enough, while in other cases multiple investigators may be needed.

This is usually dependent on the complexity of the investigation. If the investigation is simple, then one investigator may be enough. But if the investigation is complex, then multiple investigators may be needed in order to get the job done properly.

Hire A Private Investigator Today

Most of the time, the cost of hiring a private investigator is worth the price. This is because private investigators can provide you with information that you would not be able to get on your own.

If you need to hire a private investigator, be sure to consider all of the factors mentioned above. This will help you to get an accurate estimate of the cost. And if you’re looking for a private investigator in Sydney, Spousebusters can help. We have a team of experienced investigators who can handle any type of investigation, no matter how complex it may be. Contact us today to learn more!