Unveiling the Costs: Hiring a Private Investigator in Singapore in 2025
- Absolute Digital
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Whether you're dealing with a personal dilemma, a corporate issue, or a legal dispute, hiring a private investigator in Singapore can provide crucial insights and evidence. In 2025, demand for private investigation services remains steady, and knowing how much it costs—and why—can help you make better decisions.
This guide provides a clear breakdown of what influences the cost of hiring a private investigator, what typical rates look like in Singapore for 2025, and how to find a reputable, licensed PI to help with your case.
Before diving into costs, it's essential to understand what private investigators actually do. In Singapore, licensed PIs offer a variety of services, including:
Surveillance: Tracking individuals discreetly to record their movements.
Matrimonial Investigations: Gathering evidence in suspected infidelity or divorce cases.
Background Checks: Validating identity, employment, or criminal history.
Workplace Investigations: Uncovering employee misconduct or business fraud.
Digital Forensics: Recovering deleted files or monitoring digital activity.
Asset Tracing: Locating hidden or undeclared assets.
Missing Person Searches: Finding lost contact with individuals.
All investigations must comply with Singapore’s Private Security Industry Act and be carried out only by licensed individuals.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Private Investigator in Singapore (2025)?
1. Hourly Rates
Most private investigators in Singapore charge by the hour, especially for surveillance work.
Standard Range: SGD 100 to 300 per hour
Higher End (Specialized Investigators): Up to SGD 400–500 per hour
Minimum Hours: Often 4–6 hours per assignment/session
Example: A 3-day surveillance project (6 hours/day at SGD 200/hour) could cost SGD 3,600.
2. Flat Fees
Some services, like background checks or record searches, are priced at a fixed rate.
Background Check: SGD 500–1,200
Digital Investigation (e.g., phone/computer forensics): SGD 1,500–3,000
Asset Search: SGD 1,200–3,500
3. Retainers
For long or complex cases, investigators may request an upfront retainer fee.
Retainer Range: SGD 2,000–5,000, depending on the scope of the investigation
This is usually deducted from the final bill but secures the investigator’s time and resources.
4. Additional Costs
These are not always included in the hourly rate:
Expense Type | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
Equipment Rental (e.g., cameras, GPS trackers) | 100–500 |
Travel & Transport | Varies (e.g., Grab rides, petrol) |
Report Writing & Legal Documentation | 200–500 |
Overseas Surveillance | Flights, hotels, daily allowance |
Key Factors Affecting PI Costs
Factor | How It Affects Cost |
Experience | More experienced investigators charge more. |
Case Complexity | A simple background check costs less than corporate espionage surveillance. |
Time Involved | Longer jobs = higher total cost. |
Use of Technology | Tools like drones, trackers, or cyber forensics increase pricing. |
Legal & Compliance Support | Cases involving court admissible evidence may include documentation fees. |
Are There Budget-Friendly Options?
Yes, some agencies offer package deals or consultations to assess your case before starting. It’s best to:
Compare Multiple Quotes from licensed PI firms
Clarify Billing Terms: Hourly vs flat rate, any hidden charges
Negotiate Packages for multiple services (e.g., background + surveillance)
Here’s a checklist before hiring:
Licensed by PLRD: All private investigators in Singapore must be licensed by the Police Licensing & Regulatory Department. Ask for their license number.
Transparent Pricing: Choose PIs who give clear breakdowns of rates and conditions.
Experience & Reviews: Ask for case experience, testimonials, or success rates.
Confidentiality: Professional investigators guarantee discretion.
Signed Agreement: Always have a contract or service agreement before proceeding.
Red Flags to Avoid
Unlicensed individuals claiming to be PIs
"Too cheap to be true" packages
No written agreement or invoice
Vague or evasive answers about methodology
Always work with reputable agencies to ensure legal, effective, and reliable results.
What Clients Usually Ask
Q1: How long does a typical investigation take?
A: It depends on the case. Background checks may take 3–5 days. Surveillance could span weeks.
Q2: Will I receive a report?
A: Yes. Professional investigators usually provide a detailed final report, sometimes with photographic or video evidence.
Q3: Can PI evidence be used in court?
A: Yes, as long as it’s legally obtained by a licensed PI. This is especially important for family court or employment tribunal cases.
Real-World Case Examples (2025)
Cheating Spouse Investigation
Client suspected infidelity
Surveillance: 3 days @ SGD 250/hour
Final Cost: SGD 4,500
Evidence submitted in divorce proceedings
Corporate IP Theft
Employee suspected of leaking trade secrets
Digital forensics + surveillance
Total: SGD 7,800
Result: Termination and successful legal action
Final Thoughts
Hiring a private investigator in Singapore in 2025 is a strategic decision that can bring peace of mind, uncover hidden truths, or provide valuable legal evidence. Costs can vary widely depending on complexity, duration, and the professionalism of the agency.
Always prioritize working with a licensed, reputable investigator who is transparent about fees and committed to confidentiality.
Where to Find Trusted Private Investigators in Singapore
If you’re ready to engage a professional but unsure where to begin, Singapore is home to several reputable private investigator firms licensed under the Private Security Industry Act. These agencies are experienced in handling a wide range of cases — from corporate investigations to personal matters — while operating within the legal framework of Singapore.
To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of trusted private investigator agencies in Singapore based on credibility, licensing, transparency, and client feedback.
Explore our featured list here:
Agencies | License Number |
L/PS/000962/2024 | |
Whether you're looking for professional surveillance, background checks, or help with a complex case, choosing the right investigator starts with knowing your options. Use our review guide to make an informed decision with confidence.
Stay Informed: Latest News & Insights
Want to dive deeper into the world of private investigation? Whether you’re curious about industry trends, legal updates, or real-life case insights, we’ve got you covered.
Click here to explore the latest news and expert tips on all things private investigation.
Comments