It's usually the first question people ask, and it deserves a straight answer: it depends on what you need found out. But "it depends" isn't useful on its own, so here's how pricing actually works — and how to keep it under control.
How investigators typically bill
Hourly plus expenses. Surveillance and most field work are usually billed by the hour, per investigator, plus mileage and direct expenses. Surveillance often has a minimum block of hours, because getting into position and waiting for a subject takes time whether or not they leave the house.
Flat fees. Many locates, background investigations and records searches can be quoted as a flat fee, because the scope is predictable.
Retainers. Most agencies ask for a retainer up front, applied against hours and expenses. Unused funds are typically returned or credited according to your agreement — make sure that's in writing.
What drives the cost
- The goal. "Is my spouse meeting someone after work on Thursdays?" is a narrower question than "What is my spouse doing?"
- The subject's predictability. Someone with a fixed schedule is easier and cheaper to observe than someone whose routine changes daily.
- Number of investigators. Some surveillance safely requires two investigators to avoid losing the subject or being noticed.
- Travel and distance. Cases far from the Phoenix metro add mileage and travel time.
- Turnaround. Rush work and nights or weekends can affect pricing.
- Reporting needs. A quick summary differs from a detailed report and video package prepared for your attorney.
How to get the most from your budget
- Share what you already know. Schedules, vehicles, addresses, recent photos — every detail you provide saves billable hours.
- Define the question. The more specific the objective, the more efficiently we can answer it.
- Time it well. If you know when something is likely to happen, surveillance can be targeted to that window.
- Start small. A short, targeted investigation often tells you whether a bigger one is needed.
What you should always get
A written agreement with the scope, rates, expenses and retainer terms; regular updates; and a clear report at the end. If anyone won't put pricing in writing, keep looking.
At The Office of Ross and Gibson, every case starts with a free, confidential consultation and a written quote before any work begins. No job too small, no job too big. Request yours here or call (602) 499-3230.