Private investigation services assist individuals, families, and businesses in gathering evidence, clarifying suspicions, and making more informed decisions, all while adhering to the law. If you’re considering hiring a private investigator but aren’t sure what’s included, what it costs, or whether it’s even legal, this guide covers the most common questions clients ask across Vancouver and beyond.
What Do Private Investigation Services Cost in Canada and Vancouver?
Private investigation services vary, but average rates in Canada range from CAD 75 to CAD 150 per hour, depending on the case complexity and the investigator’s experience. In Vancouver, boutique firms typically charge CAD 75/hour plus CAD 0.79/km, with flat fees for specific services, such as background checks or digital reporting.
- Background checks: $100–$500
- Skip tracing: $650+
- Device forensics: $1,200+/device
- Interview & witness statements: $200–$500 per session
Who Uses Private Investigation Services, and Why?
- Individuals needing surveillance, digital investigations, or marital info
- Families in custody, safety, or missing-person matters
- Businesses requiring background checks, fraud investigations, or due diligence
- Legal teams gathering evidence or conducting witness interviews
These services are standard across Canada, from metropolitan areas like Vancouver to smaller regional centres, reflecting a broader demand for focused, confidential investigative support.
How Long Does a Private Investigation Usually Take?
Investigations can range from a few hours (e.g., background check) to multi-week operations (e.g., complex fraud or surveillance). Many firms offer flat fees for simple tasks ($100–$500), while sophisticated or multi-agency cases require hourly billing and retainers ($1,500+).
Where Can I Find Licensed and Certified Investigators in BC?
In BC, investigators are required to follow the Security Services Act, which mandates proper licensing, training, and insurance. Vancouver hosts a network of reputable firms and accounts for approximately 20% of Canada’s total private security agencies, indicating a strong local capability.
What Exactly Do These Services Include?
Here’s a breakdown of what clients typically get:
- Surveillance & Undercover Operations: Hourly rates average $75–$ 150 per hour in Vancouver, with mileage charged separately.
- Background Checks, OSINT & Due Diligence: Hourly rates typically range from $125/hr, with specific flat fees for reports.
- Digital Forensics & Witness Interviews: Device examination (CAD $ 1,200/device), statement work (CAD $ 200–$ 500/interview), as per Vancouver-specific guidelines.
- Skip Tracing & Missing-Person Locates: Usually flat-priced (CAD 650+), acknowledging high initial information costs.
Why Choose a Local, Consultative Investigator?
Vancouver’s investigators offer:
- Local insight: Familiarity with areas, legal nuances, and court systems
- Proven track records: Licensed under BC’s regulatory framework
- Tailored approaches: That combine EP, tech, and investigative skill
- Flexible options: Flat fees, retainers, hourly, or hybrid pricing
Can You Really Hire a Private Investigator?
Yes. In British Columbia (and all of Canada), you can legally hire a licensed private investigator. These professionals are regularly retained to conduct surveillance, perform background checks, locate missing persons, and gather evidence for legal or personal purposes.
Is It Illegal to Hire a Private Investigator in Canada?
No, it’s entirely legal, as long as the investigator is licensed. In BC, private investigators are regulated under the Security Services Act. They must be certified by the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General and adhere to strict rules regarding surveillance, confidentiality, and evidence handling.
What Private Security Can Do That Police Can’t
While police respond to criminal activity on behalf of the public, private investigators work on your behalf. They are proactive, client-directed, and available to address situations that fall outside the scope or bandwidth of law enforcement.
Licensed PIs can:
- Conduct lawful surveillance
- Document patterns of behaviour
- Interview people related to your case
- Help you prepare legal evidence packages
But they can’t make arrests, impersonate law enforcement, or trespass on private property.
Invest in Clarity, Not Complexity
Private investigation isn’t reserved for crime dramas or luxury disputes; it’s a practical, confidential toolkit for clarifying complex situations. Whether personal, digital, or corporate, an experienced investigator gives clients peace of mind by gathering the truth when it matters most.
If you’d like to learn how Cornerstone offers unmatched private investigator services as a boutique security firm. Visit our PI service page.
