Relocating a loved one’s grave in the UK can be a complex process, but many families choose to move graves for various reasons.
If you are considering moving a grave of a loved one to another cemetery in the UK, this guide covers the steps involved, laws to know, costs and helpful funeral director tips.
Why families may need to move a grave
There are a few common reasons families elect to go through the lengthy process of exhuming a grave and removing remails to another cemetery, such as:
- The current cemetery is too crowded, dilapidated, or slated to close.
- Relatives relocate to another part of the country and wish to have the deceased family members nearby.
- Family grave plots fill up over generations, requiring moves to new sites.
- Development encroaches on a cemetery, necessitating relocation.
- Families change faiths or denominations, desiring different consecrated ground.
How to move a grave in the UK
If your family decides to relocate a grave, key steps involved typically include:
Get Approval from Next of Kin and Burial Authority
- The next of kin or executor must agree to exhume the grave and move remains.
- Permission from the local authority governing the current cemetery is also needed.
Apply for Exhumation License
- Submit an application to the Ministry of Justice for an exhumation license, detailing plans and reason for moving the body.
- Local environment health departments and public health officials also review applications.
Purchase New Grave Plot
- Arrange for a suitable new grave plot and the necessary burial rights in the cemetery where you wish to relocate remains.
Schedule the Exhumation
- Set an exhumation date once all permissions are secured. The funeral director and environmental health office must be present.
Transfer Remains and Re-inter at New Site
- Carefully exhume the grave, transferring contents to a new coffin if needed.
- Transport remains to the new cemetery for reburial, allowing for a brief service if family desires.
Costs and Timeframe for Moving a Grave
Due to stringent UK regulations, moving a grave can be costly and time-intensive. Some costs and timeframes to expect:
- Exhumation licence fee – £240 to apply plus £23 to re-apply if unsuccessful the first time.
- Funeral director fees – Around £2500 to £5000 on average.
- New coffin – Up to £4000 for a high quality coffin. Basic coffins around £500.
- New grave purchase – Prices vary depending on cemetery. Can range from hundreds to thousands.
- Full process timeframe – Often 6-12+ months to get approvals, coordinate and complete the move.
Work with a Reputable Funeral Director
Trying to orchestrate relocating a grave without an experienced funeral director guiding you through the complex web of legal permissions and logistics can quickly become overwhelming.
Here at Joseph A. Hey & Son Limited funeral home, our compassionate team has helped countless families navigate exhuming and moved deceased loved ones over our long history serving Bradford since 1856. We are here to handle all aspects – from securing licences to transferring remains respectfully.
Please visit www.heyfunerals.co.uk
