Private investigator costs are top of the list of many people looking to hire a private investigator. Understandably so, given most people haven’t used one before. So, how much does it cost to hire a private detective?
While there is no one-size-fits all price when it comes to hiring a detective, there are several factors which can affect the cost. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the things that can impact the cost to hire a private investigator to give you a better idea
Investigation types
Every case is different. That means each one will require different techniques to solve it.
Private investigators often use online social media investigations, along with computer forensics to solve cheating partner cases. On the other hand, missing person cases require the most in-depth and up-to-date trace systems that are legally available in the UK. As you can see, both cases are different and both require very unique techniques, tailored specifically for them.
The cost to hire a private investigator typically rises with the more resources or investigators that will be required to solve your case. So, the more basic your case is, the cost of hiring a private detective will be lower. But if your case is complex, with a lot of surveillance and investigation needed, the cost of the private detective will be higher.
Duration
Some cases can be very complex to solve, and therefore require a lot more time when compared to others. When you first enquire about hiring a private detective, they will take as much detail as possible about your case. The next step is to arrange a consultation, which normally happens face to face. Here, they will discuss the length of time it should take to solve your case, and base their quote partly on this.
Before they start to investigate your case, the private investigator should give you a rough estimate of how long your case should last so there are no unexpected costs if things take longer.
Hourly vs flat rates
Another way in which private investigation costs can vary is the way they’re actually calculated. When comparing costs and quotes, you will likely come across two separate rates – namely, hourly and flat.
Flat rates refer to a fixed price for a job. You’ll be quoted £500, for example, which covers all services, resources and reports relating to the job. In most cases, this is because private investigators know exactly how to solve the case and how long it will take – plus any equipment required.
On the other hand, hourly rates are where private investigators charge by the hour. In this instance, you’ll be given an hourly rate of £50, for example. This will usually be accompanied by an estimate of how long the job will take. However, if it’s done quicker, you won’t be charged as much, and if it takes longer, the private investigator is covered
If a quote is given to you based on an hourly rate, it is always based to make sure what is included in the hourly rate. Normally for a flat fee quote, all the surveillance equipment, travel for the private detective and other expenses is taken into consideration. This might not be the case for an hourly rated quote. Always thoroughly check what’s included.
Are higher rates worth it for experience?
Cheaper quotes to hire a private investigator might look more appealing. However, in many cases this is down to a lack of experience. Inexperienced or poorly equipped private investigators will try to draw people in with cheap quotes.
The problem here is that those private investigators won’t provide a service that’s effective or efficient. Firstly, they might not get the evidence you need. Their findings might not be fit for use in court or as thorough as those form an experienced private investigator.
On top of that, their lack of experience will mean they take longer to get the evidence. As well as more waiting around, that could mean your costs rise if you’re paying on an hourly basis.
In the end, it would be more cost effective to hire a private investigator with plenty of experience, who knows the ins and outs of private investigation – it will save you money, time and hassle in the long term.
Another important consideration when it comes to experience is ICO registration. It’s always worth checking for ICO registration before you hire a private investigator. ICO is the UK’s independent authority which was set up to uphold information rights in the public interest and data privacy for individuals. If your private investigator is ICO registered, it means that they will follow strict rules when it comes to someone’s privacy.
Outlining private detective costs in a consultation
IF you’re concerned about private investigator costs, an initial consultation could be invaluable. Quite often, these consultations are completely free, with no obligation. They allow the investigator to outline the best course of action, how long they expect the case to go on for and of course their costs.
In addition, you should always have a detailed contract from your private investigator. When your case has been finished, the private investigator should give you a detailed, itemised list of all the expenses and records of tasks they have completed for you and your case. This makes sure you know how much you are paying, and what for.
Get a private investigation quote today
With a team of expert private detectives in Manchester and across the UK, highly skilled in a range of investigation techniques, M19 Solutions has uncovered the truth for over 1,000 cases. Our services are always 100% confidential – we pride ourselves on being discreet and working to our clients’ convenience.
Whether it’s a cheating partner, corporate investigation or finding missing people, we can provide the solutions you need. Our initial consultations are free and we try and get as much detail of what you want from your case, whether it be evidence for a court case or to locate a missing person.
Contact us today to arrange a free consultation to discuss private investigation costs. You can call us on 0161 706 0057 or email info@m19solutions.co.uk.
Also, don’t forget to check out our exciting new blog post about the most famous detectives ever – from Sherlock Holmes all the way through to Dave Toschi.
