About Us
Surveillance NQ is an owner-operated private investigations firm. We specialise in working across North Queensland, based in Townsville. Our local knowledge and contact network give us an unfair advantage over many firms. You will deal directly with the agent working on your case.
With more than 35 years police and investigations experience, we are accredited with most major insurers, government, legal firms and individuals, we cover all types of investigations. To work with clients and understand often unique case requests takes good listening skills, empathy and patience.
We are here to help people, offer fixes and solve problems. Let us find a solution for your needs. Our investigators are equipped with the latest technology and have a thorough understanding of tactics and regulations.
Our Rates
Requests by customers vary considerably; each task has different demands and risks. We price and quote each job on its own merits, expenses and timings. Feel free to call us to discuss your job. Not many PI jobs are the same, as each task has different demands and risks.
The insurance industry often uses 20-hour blocks for lifestyle and activity checks on personal injury claims. Many private cases are less than half that, on average a cheater’s case, if timed right, can be solved in only a few hours.
There is a four-hour minimum invoice and we are similar in prices to tradesman. Contact us for a quote. Four-hour minimums apply on weekends and holidays.
Our Terms
Initial consultations are free. Consultations that exceed 20 minutes may be billed. Invoices are a minimum of four hours, excluding welfare checks.
Kilometre charges: 1-500 @ 90c/km, 501-1000 @ 80c/km, over 1001 @ 70c/km. Standard rates are 6 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday. Shift rates are all other times. Public and seasonal holidays are subject to higher loading as an agreed rate.
If costs are outstanding or a bill is disputed, we may hold results until resolved. If required to attend court as a witness in your matter, prior payment is required.
Travel time is charged to and from all jobs, billed at a flat hourly rate of $60/hr. Accommodation, airfares, meals and other expenses are at actual costs.
New Customers
We require payment upfront (based on estimated costing) at least 24 hours prior to the start of the job. Any difference will be billed afterwards. Payment terms are strictly seven days on any outstanding amounts and results are withheld until payment is received.
We prefer payment to be made by EFT and will advise you of the required banking details by return email. Payment can also be made via cash, PayPal or credit card (Visa, Mastercard or AMEX). Cheques are not accepted.
If you or the subject/target are named in any family law or domestic violence orders, you must advise us of this and supply a copy of the order and your ID before we can start. Returning customers receive a discounted hourly rate as a loyalty reward.
Business Customers
Surveillance NQ offers 14-day accounts to legal professionals, insurers and other private investigation firms. Pro-bono work is not undertaken.
Privacy Policy
Surveillance NQ aims to act in good faith to protect the privacy of our operatives, clients, internet site visitors or anyone seeking our advice or services for any lawful purpose.
You are not protected against legal privilege or process of law. We must and do comply with the National Privacy Principles and the Commonwealth Privacy Act.
Surveillance NQ works under state laws of Judges Rules, Evidence Act, Invasion of Privacy Act and the Security Providers Act and Regulations.
