Hiring a private investigator should bring clarity—not confusion or sticker shock. At Root Investigations, we believe you deserve honest, upfront pricing with zero surprises. That’s why our all-inclusive, flat-rate packages are designed for total transparency—no hidden fees, no retainer, and no last-minute add-ons.
What we quote is what you pay—no upsells, no add-ons, and no fine print. In some cases, a second investigator may need to be added to the case, especially when in NYC. This addition of $150/hr would be included in your initial quote to ensure transparency.
Several factors affect what private investigators charge:
Extras: Many agencies bill separately for travel, video, or reports—Root includes it all.
Here’s what sets us apart:
A “cheap” $125/hr quote can easily snowball to $1,800+ for a 4-hour job once all the extras are added. With Root, that same service is $900—flat.
At Root Investigations, we work closely with attorneys, families, and businesses. Many of our investigations go to court—which means our work must stand up to legal scrutiny.
That includes:
Simply put, we charge for results that matter, not just time spent watching a door.
How much does a private investigator cost in NYC?
Quotes vary depending on service type. For example, Root Investigations charges $900 for 4 hours of surveillance and $1700 for 8 hours.
Are there any hidden fees with Root Investigations?
None. Everything from travel to video reports is included in your initial quote.
Can I get a background check with my investigation?
Yes, standard background checks are always included.
What happens if I need more hours than quoted?
Flexible extensions can be added at a clear per-hour rate without back billing.
Will I be charged for meals or travel time?
No. Those expenses are included in your package rate.
Can the investigator appear in court if needed?
Yes, all documentation is court-ready, and appearances can be arranged.
We are a boutique private investigation agency serving New York City and Long Island with professional private investigation services.
We get to the root of the problem.