When someone dies it is a difficult time for everyone involved and you may find it hard to think about what you have to do, below is a guide to help guide you through what to do at time of death. It is not necessary for you to register the death before making funeral arrangements, and the sooner you contact us the sooner we can start to help and guide you. Please remember we are here to help 24 hours a day so if you have any questions please do no hesitate.

Inform the doctor
As soon as possible inform the doctor that death has occurred. He/she may write out the Medical Certificate of Death when he/she visits the house, or may request you attend the surgery for this purpose.

When death occurs in hospital
When death happens in hospital the procedure is very similar. Apply to the hospital for the Medical Certificate of Death and not your family doctor.

The Coroner
In cases where the death has been reported to the Coroner the procedure is somewhat different. The Coroner and his officers are working in your interest. No doctor will issue a Medical Certificate of Death. This will be sent by the Coroner to the Registrar’s Office in the district where the death occurred, after contact has been made with the Coroner’s office.

How to register a death

Who can register?
1. Close relative of deceased
2. Relative in attendance during last illness
3. A relative living in the district where death occurred
4. A person present at death
5. The person causing the Funeral to take place

The Registrar will require the following details:
Full name of the deceased:
Home address:
Date and place of death:
Last Occupation:
Date of birth of deceased:
Whether deceased was a married woman:
Maiden name:
Husbands full name – even if deceased:
Certificates
Green Cremation or Burial Certificate for the Funeral Director
Social Security Certificate to be handed in at the D.S.S. Offices with any pension books
Copies of Entry of Death for bank, insurance, solicitors