When someone dies at home, it can feel overwhelming. Whether the death was expected or sudden, there are clear steps you can follow. This guide walks you through what to do, who to call, and how to begin making arrangements.
If the death was expected (for example, following a terminal illness with palliative care), call the GP surgery or out-of-hours service. They will arrange for a doctor to confirm the death and issue a medical certificate. If the death was sudden or unexpected, call 999. The paramedics or police will attend and guide you through the next steps.
You don't need to move the person. A doctor or medical professional will need to attend to confirm the death. Once confirmed, there is no rush — take the time you need before the funeral director arrives.
Once the death has been confirmed, you can contact a funeral director to arrange collection. NAFD-accredited funeral directors offer a 24-hour service and will handle everything with care and dignity. You don't need to have made any decisions about the funeral yet.
The doctor who confirmed the death will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). You'll need this to register the death. If the death is referred to the coroner, they will issue the necessary paperwork instead.
You must register the death within 5 days (8 days in Scotland) at the local register office. You'll need the medical certificate and the deceased's personal details. The registrar will give you the documents needed for the funeral and to manage the estate.
All funeral directors listed here are NAFD-accredited and adhere to a strict Code of Practice.
Search funeral directors18 steps covering everything you need to do in the first 30 days.
View the full checklistWhat happens when someone dies in hospital — who to contact, collecting belongings, and arranging the funeral. Clear guidance from NAFD-accredited funeral directors.
What happens when someone dies in a care home — what the care home handles, your responsibilities, and how to arrange a funeral. Guidance from NAFD funeral directors.
How to register a death in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. What documents you need, time limits, and what happens at the register office.
