What does an investigation bureau cost?

What does it cost to hire or engage a detective agency? We get this question daily from both companies and individuals. The cost of a criminal investigation depends on several factors, including the expertise required, the method of investigation chosen and the duration of the investigation.

At Santos Recherchebureau, we work with transparent rates and a meticulous approach. Hourly rates start from €99.50 excl. VAT and vary based on the complexity of the case and the use of specialized resources, such as observations, digital research, camera cars or interviewing.

On this page you can read about how we work, how the costs are structured and through practical examples you will get a realistic picture of what it actually costs to hire a detective agency.
For an in-depth explanation of the costs of hiring a detective agency for companies or the costs of hiring a private investigator as an individual, please click through to the corresponding pages.

Our working method

1. Free intake interview

Each investigation begins with a personal and confidential meeting. We take the time to understand your situation, discuss signs or suspicions, and together map out the purpose of the investigation. During this conversation, we will clearly explain which investigation methods are possible and you will receive an initial cost indication.

2. Case file, digital research & preliminary exploration

Upon agreement, we prepare a professional case file. In it we incorporate all relevant information you provide, such as names, locations, vehicles, times and photos. We supplement this with digital research (OSINT) in public sources.

If necessary, we also conduct a preliminary site survey. With this, we identify observation possibilities, sightlines and possible risks in advance. This preparation ensures that the investigation can be conducted more efficiently and purposefully.

3. Start of research - customization on a case-by-case basis

We tailor the execution of the investigation entirely to your situation. This may consist of static or dynamic observations, digital research, the placement of a camera truck or mobile camera set, interview interviews or a combination thereof.

When observation is part of the study, we always schedule it from a minimum of four hours. This is necessary to reliably record behavioral patterns. All work is performed objectively, discreetly and legally correct.

4. Detailed research report

Upon completion, you will receive a comprehensive investigation report in which all relevant observations are recorded objectively and chronologically. The report includes timelines, locations and - if applicable - visual material. This report is suitable for legal processes and further decision-making.

Cost detective agency: rates

An investigator's hourly rate starts from €99.50 excl. VAT per hour. The final cost depends on expertise, complexity, deployment of resources and time of execution (day, evening, night or weekend). You will always receive a clear cost estimate in advance.

Sample cases

Sick leave (company)

An employer received signals that a long-term sick-listed employee was regularly present at an external work location and possibly carrying out work there. A multi-day surveillance investigation objectively documented this, with supporting footage, and the findings were used during the hearing process with the employee.

Read the full case study →

Housing fraud (housing corporation)

A housing corporation suspected unauthorised subletting of a social housing unit. Our investigation mapped the actual living pattern, with a report that supported the corporation's next steps.

Adultery (private)

A private client wanted clarity about a suspected extramarital relationship involving a family member. Discreet evening surveillance on two occasions objectively documented the nature and intensity of the contact.

Read the full case study →

In advance, we always discuss what efforts are necessary and you will receive a clear cost estimate. We do not conduct any research without your approval. All amounts mentioned are exclusive of VAT.

Receive an instant cost estimate

Would you like to know what a survey will cost in your situation? Contact us with no obligation.

Would you like a targeted cost estimate?

Different principles and costs apply depending on your situation.
Choose the page below that best suits you.

For companies
View costs and procedure for business surveys

For private individuals
View costs and procedure for private investigations

Indicative cost

Investigation type	Indication
Infidelity investigation	From €850
Minor behaviour investigation	From €850
Stalking investigation	Custom, depending on urgency
Maintenance fraud investigation	From €1,500, usually several weeks
Digital & social media investigation	From €750
Missing persons	From €675
Sick leave fraud investigation	From €2,000
Housing & subletting fraud investigation	Custom quote, usually several weeks

Amounts are indicative and exclude VAT. Final costs are agreed together during the free intake call.

What determines the price?

• The nature and duration of the investigation (a short surveillance session vs. an extended lifestyle investigation)
• The number of investigators involved and any use of camera vehicles or mobile camera systems
• The amount of digital research required
• Urgency: standard scheduling is usually more cost-effective than an urgent investigation

Frequently asked questions