Workplace investigation fees

We set out our fees in full so an organization can plan for the cost of an investigation before it begins. Every engagement starts with a written agreement that confirms the rate, deposit, and scope of work. All fees are in Canadian dollars and are subject to applicable taxes.

Rachel Maxcy is an independent workplace investigator based in Vancouver, British Columbia. We conduct investigations for organizations in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, and for remote workplaces.

How much does a Preliminary Review and Assessment cost?

$2,950 flat fee, plus applicable taxes

Half is due when the agreement is signed and is non-refundable. The balance is due when the report is delivered.

The preliminary review helps an organization determine whether it needs a full investigation before committing to one. We review the complaint and the documents provided, assess them against the regulatory frameworks that apply, and deliver a written report with recommendations on next steps. Not every complaint meets the threshold for a full investigation, and some are better resolved another way.

If the organization proceeds with a full investigation, the work done in the review carries forward. It is not repeated or billed again.

See how the Preliminary Review and Assessment works.

How much does a full workplace investigation cost?

• Corporate: $325 per hour, plus applicable taxes
• Small to medium-sized business: $275 per hour, plus applicable taxes
• Nonprofit or registered charity: $245 per hour, plus applicable taxes

The hourly rate does not change with complexity; it reflects the number of hours worked. This includes the number of allegations, the number of people interviewed, volume of evidence, and reporting.

A matter with one complainant and a few witnesses takes far less time than one involving a senior leader, several complainants or more than one regulatory framework.

If the work appears to be beyond that estimate, we tell you in writing before the range is exceeded.

See how a workplace investigation works, from first call to final report. For some complaints, an internal investigation is the better choice. See Choosing Between an Internal and External Workplace Investigation.

How do deposits and billing work?

• A non-refundable deposit is required before work begins: $2,500 for non-profits and registered charities, $3,000 for small businesses, and $3,500 for corporate clients. It is applied against hours as they are worked.
• Work commences once the signed agreement and the deposit are received.
• Additional hours are invoiced as they are incurred and are payable within 15 days.
• Every invoice is itemized, with a breakdown of hours by activity allocated in 6-minute allotments.

How much does HR consulting cost?

HR consulting is customized to each organization, whether you need a single project, fractional support, or an ongoing retainer. We discuss scope and fees with you directly and confirm them in a written proposal.

Next step

Book a 30-minute discovery call to talk through the situation and which service fits. We will follow up with a written proposal and an estimate.

Book a call