Process
What to do when someone dies: first steps in the UK
Last updated 4 May 2026
Quick answer
When someone dies in the UK, first call the appropriate medical professional or emergency service, obtain the medical certificate of cause of death, register the death, then choose a funeral director or make direct arrangements. You can compare funeral prices before committing to a provider.
The first few days after a death are practical and emotional at the same time. This checklist explains the usual order of events and where funeral price comparison fits in.
If the death happens at home
If the death was expected, call the GP, district nurse or out-of-hours medical service. If it was unexpected, call 999. A medical professional will confirm the death and explain what happens next.
Register the death
The death is usually registered within five days in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, or eight days in Scotland. See how to register a death for the documents and appointment process.
Choose a funeral director
You do not have to choose the first funeral director you call. Before signing an estimate, compare published UK funeral prices near you using postcode search or browse funeral costs by location.
Decide between direct cremation, attended funeral or burial
A direct cremation is unattended and usually lower-cost. An attended funeral includes a service. Burial often adds cemetery, grave purchase and gravedigging costs. Compare direct cremation prices, attended funeral charges and burial costs.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to choose a funeral director immediately?
No. You may need practical help with collection and care of the deceased, but you can still ask for prices and compare published Standardised Price Lists before committing to a full funeral arrangement.
Can I compare prices before registering the death?
Yes. Registration is needed before the funeral can proceed, but you can compare funeral directors and ask for estimates while registration is being arranged.
How we keep this trustworthy
Source
Guides combine Funeral Cost Index data with primary public sources. They are written for comparison and signposting, not as financial, legal or bereavement advice.
Freshness
Last data check: 4 May 2026. Based on published CMA Standardised Price Lists where available.
Accountability
We do not arrange funerals, sell paid rankings, or accept commission for placement. Corrections are reviewed against the provider’s public price list.
Primary sources
Prices can change and packages differ. Always confirm the current price, what is included, availability, and any third-party costs directly with the funeral director before deciding.
Publisher credentials
Funeral Cost Index is published by Peter Langdon FCA through Indexeli Intelligence Limited. Peter is listed in ICAEW’s Find a Chartered Accountant directory, and the project applies an accountancy-led approach to public-interest price transparency, source evidence, correction handling, and clear separation between captured prices and estimates.
View Peter Langdon’s ICAEW directory profile · ICAEW does not endorse, verify, or operate Funeral Cost Index.
Find published UK funeral prices near you
Search by UK postcode or browse cities to see funeral directors’ published Standardised Price Lists in your area.