• F.A.Q.

    • Do private investigators have special rules they need to follow?
    • How much does it cost to hire a private investigator?
      • That depends entirely on the nature of each individual case we investigate. Every matter is unique. Take, for example, a search for a missing person. If the name of the subject is quite common (something like John Smith), and you aren’t able to give us many more details about the person, it’s going to take hours and hours to comb through all the search results in a database to find relevant information. However, a less common name will usually make the case far more straightforward because we would need to sift through far fewer results in a database to find what we are looking for. All areas of investigations, whether it be surveillance, digital investigations, background checks, etc vary in complexity depending on what is involved. It is easy to see therefore that the cost of conducting investigations is contingent on the time and resources that will need to be allocated to your case. It’s important that you provide an investigator with all the relevant details surrounding your case so a plan and a fair budget can be tailored to meet your specific needs.
    • Will the person I am investigating find out or be notified?
      • This also comes down to confidentiality. When you hire a private investigator, they are acting under your instruction and if you don’t want the person to know they are under investigation the private investigator you’ve hired will try and keep it as low-key as possible. Depending on what you hire the investigator for will determine if the person being investigated needs be notified or not. If you are getting a private investigator background check on an employee, then the employee will need to be notified.
    • How will I be updated on my case?
      • Ask the private investigator how they will keep you updated on progress. It may be a daily email report, telephone call, or a weekly report if the case is large and complex. Decide how and in what form you want to be kept up-to-date and ask the investigator, can they provide this.
    • Will you provide a detailed report?
      • Most private investigators will provide a detailed written report, particularly a final case report. Ask them what case reports you will receive and in what format, particularly the final report. Also ask about photographic evidence (if applicable) to go along with the report. You will need all of this, particularly if you involve a lawyer or intend court action.
    • Do you have a contract or agreement form?
      • Ask for a copy and if you can amend it if you are not happy with certain conditions. Most private investigator contracts will have certain conditions that remain fixed that you will have to agree to. But there should also be a section in the contract that is personalized for you and your case, as no two cases are exactly the same.
      • You will only sign an agreement form once the costs and terms have been settled and are entered the contract.
    • How Do Private Investigators Get Paid?
      • In many cases, private investigators charge an hourly fee that is based on the complexity of the case, the location and other factors. Some services may be available for a flat fee, such as a background or record check. Many private investigators will ask for an upfront retainer before they agree to take the case. You may also have to pay for out-of-pocket expenses that private investigators expend to complete the service, such as mileage, airline charges, copying charges, long distance telephone call charges and photo printing charges.
    • What Types of Devices Do Private Investigators Use?
      • As part of their surveillance and other services, private investigators may use a variety of technological devices. The rules regarding the use of different devices vary by jurisdiction, so some items may not be used in certain locales. Private investigators may use binoculars, extension lens, digital cameras, hidden cameras and night vision cameras. They may also use debugging equipment, recording devices and tracking equipment. A van or other vehicle may also be outfitted with surveillance equipment.
    • Are you willing to be a witness in court if needed?
      • Private investigators generally expect to and are experienced in court hearings as professional witnesses. But ask the investigator to be certain. If they are not willing and you plan on taking your case to court, then find another investigator.