Research

If you’re considering commissioning research, the process usually falls into three stages: an initial assessment, the research itself, and your final report.

Free Initial Assessment

I offer one hour of my time free of charge, with no obligation on either side.

During this time we’ll talk (usually by email, but I can provide a Zoom link if you prefer) about what you already know and what you hope to discover. I’ll then spend the remainder of the hour doing some initial digging to judge whether meaningful progress is likely.

Please note: good research can’t be rushed. If you need a substantial piece of work for a loved one’s birthday next week, it’s often better as next year’s gift. Once I’ve seen the problem, I can usually estimate a realistic timescale.

Paid Research

If we agree that progress is possible, we can then confirm the scope of the work, practical arrangements, and costs.

My standard rate is £25 per hour plus any costs (documents, travel, etc). I can also offer bespoke arrangements, for example a fixed fee for researching a defined portion of a family tree.

Once the scope and cost are agreed, I will send an invoice. This will summarise what we’ve agreed and include detailed terms and conditions. Payment of the invoice indicates acceptance of the contract terms.

The Final Report

When the research is complete, I’ll deliver the results in the format that best suits you— anything from an emailed PDF to a hardback, coffee-table style book.

If you’d like a beautifully printed pedigree chart showing the main lines of ancestry, that can be arranged as well.

I’m compiling a page of previous work to give a clearer sense of what you might receive if you engage my services. If you have a different request, please ask and we’ll see what’s possible.