One of the most common questions we get is: "How much will this cost?"
The answer depends on complexity, location, and the type of investigation. Unlike buying a product, you are paying for professional service hours and expertise. In 2025, rates have adjusted to reflect modern technology and surveillance capabilities.
Hourly Rates Explained
Most surveillance cases (infidelity, child custody) are billed hourly. Rates vary by region and experience.
- Junior Investigator: $75 - $100/hr (Often for basic stationary surveillance)
- Standard Investigator: $100 - $175/hr (Experienced, mobile surveillance)
- Senior Investigator: $200+/hr (Complex fraud, corporate, or high-risk cases)
Note: Most agencies have a 4-hour minimum per surveillance day to account for travel and setup.
Understanding Refrainers
A retainer is an upfront deposit from which hourly fees are deducted. It is not an extra fee; it is your funding for the case.
// RETAINER_EXAMPLE
Deposit: $2,500
Investigation: 20 hours @ $125/hr = $2,500
Result: Retainer fully utilized. Any unused portion is typically refundable.
Flat Fee Services
Some services have a predictable scope and are billed as a one-time fee:
Hidden & Additional Costs
Be aware of these potential extra charges:
- Mileage: $0.50 - $0.75 per mile driven during surveillance.
- Travel Time: Time spent getting to/from the target location.
- Database Fees: Costs for accessing paid information databases ($20-$50).
- Report Writing: Time spent compiling video and writing the final dossier (usually 1-2 hours).
Cost Red Flags
WARNING: "CHEAP" INVESTIGATORS
If a quote seems too good to be true (e.g., $40/hr), run. These operators often:
- Lack insurance or licenses.
- Subcontract to untrained workers.
- Use "ghosting" techniques (claiming to be on site when they aren't).
- Produce evidence that gets thrown out of court.
Quality investigations require expensive equipment, insurance, and experienced personnel. Cheap investigations often cost more in the long run when you have to re-do them.