FAQs
Here are some examples of average private investigation costs: Hourly rate: $60-$70; costs can vary based on current fuel prices. Flat rate: $100 for comprehensive background investigation services. Retainer: $1,500 minimum retainer required by some pros before starting work.
How much does a private investigator cost in Philadelphia, PA? ›
Here are some examples of average private investigation costs: Hourly rate: $60-$70; costs can vary based on current fuel prices. Flat rate: $100 for comprehensive background investigation services. Retainer: $1,500 minimum retainer required by some pros before starting work.
Are private investigators worth it? ›
They know how to conduct surveillance, research, interview, and gather evidence. They do these things to uncover hidden information. There are many benefits of hiring a PI. They can help you navigate through complex situations and provide invaluable insights that might be otherwise impossible to obtain.
What state is best for private investigators? ›
Where do PIs earn the most money? The BLS reports private investigators and detectives have a high earning potential in the Midwest. However, top paying states currently include Virginia, Hawaii, Washington, Oregon and New York—some of which are firmly outside the Midwestern boundaries.
How much is it to hire a private detective? ›
Prices per hour range from £30 to £85 per hour, with an average hourly rate typically £50 to £55 per hour. As experienced investigators they understand that no task is the same as another and tailor what they charge accordingly. A location for the investigation may also be a factor.
What is the difference between a private investigator and a detective? ›
A private investigator works on a personal level with people, independent of the state. A detective is bound by law. Such a person is a high-rank police officer who has the authority to investigate people's private matters because the law allows him to do so.
Is it legal to hire a private investigator in Pennsylvania? ›
ARE PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS LEGAL IN PENNSYLVANIA? All private investigators operating in Pennsylvania must obtain a license from the BSIS or the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.
Can a private investigator bug your phone? ›
Wiretapping Phones
Just like every other citizen, private investigators are prohibited from wiretapping or monitoring phone conversations without consent from at least one of the individuals. This federal law is present in all states of the USA.
How to spot a private investigator? ›
1. Look for Red Flags
- Unfamiliar vehicles parked near your home or office for extended periods of time. ...
- Odd background noises, clicks, or echoes on phone calls. ...
- Being asked probing personal questions by strangers. ...
- Legal documents or proceedings referencing private details you haven't disclosed.
Should you ever talk to a private investigator? ›
You are not obligated to speak with them, and it is best not to speak with them. You may want to consider blocking their phone number. If you think someone may have filed criminal charges against you, you can contact your local sheriffs department.
About. Private detectives & investigators are most often employed by the Banking & related activities industry.
Are private investigators better than police? ›
PI's often have specialized expertise and access to databases that can speed up the investigative process, while police are often inundated with dozens if not hundreds of cases that are ongoing.
What is the most common use of private investigators? ›
Someone might hire a private investigator to gather information or evidence related to a personal or legal matter, such as suspected infidelity (cheating husband or cheating wife), child custody disputes, insurance fraud, missing person cases, or criminal investigations.
Can private investigator get text messages? ›
If you compose a text message and then don't send it, it is often saved as a draft. This means it's stored on your phone and a private investigator can extract that message using advanced cellphone forensics techniques.
How much is an infidelity private investigator? ›
The average infidelity investigation cost for a surveillance level investigation can be as little as $500 to $2000. Our pricing is fair and competitive within the industry.
Why might someone hire a private detective? ›
Personal Matters
Private Investigators can help individuals gather information on personal contacts. This may be checking that a new partner is telling the truth about their background, or confirming or disproving suspicions that help catch a cheating spouse.
How much does a local private investigator cost? ›
Private investigator prices will vary from state to state and by experience level. In general, the cost for hiring a private investigator ranges from $60 to $150 per hour. However, some highly experienced and elite private investigators in major metropolitan areas may command higher rates exceeding $250 per hour.
Can a civilian hire a private investigator? ›
One of the most common questions at Blue Chameleon Investigations is: "Can a civilian hire a private investigator?" The answer is a resounding yes, and the reasons why civilians seek our help are as diverse as the cases we handle. Unraveling the Mystery: Who Hires Private Investigators?
How much does it cost to hire a private investigator in us? ›
On average, private investigators charge hourly rates ranging from $50 to $150, but these rates can increase for specialized services. Investigators often require a retainer fee upfront, typically between $500 and $5,000, depending on the nature of the investigation.
How much do crime scene investigators get paid in Philadelphia? ›
As of Aug 1, 2024, the average annual pay for a Crime Scene Investigator in Philadelphia is $56,684 a year.