Private investigators usually give an estimate or fee proposal before accepting an engagement, especially for surveillance, background investigations, and litigation support. Clients, often attorneys or insurance adjusters, compare hourly rates, estimated hours, and how expenses will be handled. Investigations are unpredictable, so a good estimate explains what is included and what could change the cost.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
A written description of what you are and are not investigating keeps the work focused and limits disputes about what the client expected.
Clients want a ballpark cost, and a stated budget gives a point at which you must check in before continuing.
Surveillance, research, interviews, and testimony are priced differently, and listing them avoids surprises.
Sets expectations that a short or canceled day is still billable because of travel and setup.
Mileage, databases, records fees, lodging, and equipment charges should be listed with rates or stated as pass-through costs.
Spells out the amount due before work starts and when you will ask for more funds.
Investigations may not produce evidence, and you will not break the law to get it. Stating this protects both sides.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Surveillance (field investigator) | per hour | $65-125 |
| Background check or records research (desk work) | per hour | $50-100 |
| Locate / skip trace | flat fee | $75-300 |
| Witness interview and statement | per hour | $65-125 |
| Report writing and video review | per hour | $50-90 |
| Mileage | per mile | $0.65-1.00 |
| Asset search | flat fee | $250-800 |
| Expert or court testimony and deposition prep | per hour | $100-200 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Give a range of hours, such as 20 to 30, and state the assumptions, such as number of surveillance days and a known subject address. If the facts change, you have a basis to revise.
Surveillance often runs longer than planned because of traffic, waiting, and subjects who do not appear. Build in time for these and a second investigator if safety or coverage requires it.
Background checks, locates, and asset searches have predictable steps. A flat fee is easy for clients to approve, but state what is included and what triggers additional charges.
Propose an initial phase, such as two days of surveillance, and a check-in before continuing. It lowers the client's commitment and gives you a natural point to report results and ask for more funds.
Usually not. Surveillance outcomes depend on what the subject does, so most PIs quote an hourly rate with an estimated number of hours and a cap that requires approval to exceed.
Thirty days is common. Rates, availability, and the facts of the case can change, so put an expiration date on the estimate.
Yes, in practice. Most states and many clients expect a written contract that covers scope, fees, and confidentiality. Many PIs treat a signed estimate and retainer payment as the start of the engagement, but check your local rules.
Simple estimates are usually free. For complex litigation support or large corporate projects that require significant planning, some PIs charge a consultation fee and credit it toward the work if hired.
Use the Private Investigator invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Private Investigator invoice template