What To Do When Someone Dies

Step 1

Verify the Death

The medical examiner will forward the medical certificate of cause of death to the registrars, who will inform you once this has been completed.

You may register the death at the Registrar’s Office that is nearest to the deceased. Please remember to bring the medical certificate of cause of death with you and it is advisable to schedule an appointment prior to your visit.

Funeral arrangements can be initiated even before the death has been registered

Step 2

How to Register the Death

It's important to promptly register the death of your loved one after they pass away. While you can start making arrangements for the funeral beforehand, the actual service can't happen until the death is officially registered. By law, this registration must take place within five days (or eight days in Scotland). Once registered, you'll receive the required documentation for the funeral.

Step 3