Find answers to common questions about burial rights, wills, and statutory declarations.
We recommend waiting at least 6 months, ideally 12 months, so the ground can settle and provide a stable base for the memorial.
Insurance protects your memorial against accidental damage, vandalism, theft, storms, subsidence, and work carried out during grave reopening. Proof of insurance is required before installation and should cover the full term of your Exclusive Rights of Burial (usually renewed every 5 years). Your stonemason can advise on this.
Fees cover cemetery maintenance, staff, safety inspections, legal compliance, and administration. Costs depend on your specific grant please check in advance for the fee applicable to your grave.
All grant holders must sign the application.
Yes. Memorials must be installed by a qualified mason registered with NAMM or BRAMM to meet safety standards (BS8415). DIY installations are not allowed.
Only approved plants within the grave space are allowed. No trees, shrubs, fencing, lights, toys, or memorabilia. Items outside the grave space may be removed.
You’ll be notified by the burial authority and asked to arrange repairs within 28 days. If not completed, they may take action to reduce risks and charge costs. Grant holders are responsible for the memorial’s condition.
Raised kerbs, fencing, and grave mounds are not allowed for safety and maintenance reasons. They can block access and create hazards when reopening graves.
To preserve the character of these areas, memorials must be natural stone and monolith style. Please submit designs for approval before ordering.
No. All memorials must meet council specifications and be installed by approved masons. Homemade memorials and surrounds are not permitted for safety and durability reasons.
A temporary memorial is a short-term marker, such as a wooden cross or plaque, placed until a permanent memorial is installed. Permanent memorials must meet size, material, and safety standards.
No, there is no charge for repairs, removals, or remedial work, including when a memorial fails a safety inspection. However, you must be the grant holder to authorise the stonemason to submit the application on your behalf.
You can clean your memorial, but any structural work, repairs, or alterations must be done by an approved monumental mason with prior permission from the burial authority. Please note that gilding is not allowed on site.
