Checklist

There are a number of things you have to deal with whilst coming to terms with a loss.  Whilst this is by no means a comprehensive list, we hope this checklist will help you to make sure that all the essentials are covered.

Register The Death

• Collect the Death Certificate
• Make an appointment with the local Registrar
• Collate together all the necessary information to give to the Registrar
• Attend the appointment to register the death

Arrange The Funeral

• Find a local firm of undertakers
• Arrange funeral/cremation/burial as directed
• Notify time, date and place to family
• Make an announcement in the local newspaper
• Attend funeral

Contact Solicitors

Contact a local solicitor who specialises in Wills and Probate matters (such as Seatons).

The Deceased’s House If Vacant

• Remove valuables
• Keep heating on or drain water system
• Cancel deliveries e.g. milk, papers
• Redirect mail
• Lodge keys securely, not marked with address
• Confirm that property is insured and notify the household insurers
• Inform landlord if property vacant, if appropriate

The Deceased’s Car

• Inform insurers
• Transfer insurance if to be used by family
• Arrange for security if not to be used

The Deceased’s Pet(s)

• Arrange for welfare

Organisations To Be Informed

• Banks and Building Societies
• Investment and Insurance Policies
• Store Cards
• Credit Card Companies
• Hospital and/or family Doctor
• Social Services/District Nurses
• Employer or Professional Association
• Inland Revenue
• Department for Work & Pensions
• Car Insurance – Documents will have to be changed
• Gas, Electric, Water, Telephone and Cable Companies
• Post Office

Items To Be Returned

• Passport
• Driving Licence
• Vehicle Registration Documents
• Car Insurance
• Television Licence
• Season Ticket and Club Membership Cards
• Library Books and Card

Items You May Need To Cancel

Milk, Newspapers, Lottery Ticket, Appointments, Meals on Wheels, Home Help, Chiropodist, Dentist, Eye Specialist, Hairdresser, Home Care, Gardener.