Whether death occurs at home or in hospital, arrangements for the funeral will have to be made. Our staff are all trained to assist and advise you at each step of the way, our aim is to make this difficult task as easy as possible. We will explain everything as the arrangements progress as well as answer any questions you may have. This is best done at one of our offices, of which we have six, that are strategically positioned around Watford so as to be convenient to everyone.
If, however, you would prefer the arrangements to be made at your home, this can be arranged. Whatever you decide, it is always best to telephone first so that we can advise you of the things to do and also answer any immediate questions you may have.
Our telephones are answered by our staff 24 hours a day and our contact number is 01923 247427.
Registration of the Death
Unless the death is sudden or unexpected, a registered medical practitioner will propose a cause of death, which will be independently scrutinised by a Medical Examiner reviewing relevant medical records.
Once the registered medical practitioner and the Medical Examiner have made their declarations and the cause of death is finalised, and if there is no requirement to notify the H M Coroner, the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) is sent to the local Registrar’s office. This notification will then commence the 5-day period in which to register the death. It is not possible for a death to be registered in non-coronial cases without the Medical Examiner approving the MCCD.
The Medical Examiner’s office will notify the family member or friend appointed as the registration informant, that they can now contact the Registrar to book an appointment and register the death.
Department for Work and Pensions and Probate
We can also offer help and advice with DWP claims for those receiving benefits. We are pleased to offer the services of specialists dealing with probate. Details are available upon request of a firm this company recommends.
Registrar’s Contact Details
To make an appointment please call: 0300 123 4045
It is possible to make appointments online, however we advise booking by telephone to ensure that your booking is arranged as soon as possible.
Information required by the Registrar
- The Medical Certificate as previously mentioned.
- The full name of the deceased. Including aliases and maiden name.
- The date and place of birth of the deceased. Birth certificate is helpful but not essential.
- The usual residence of the deceased. The normal home address of the deceased.
- The occupation of the deceased. Or past occupation if retired.
- The husband’s occupation. If applicable.
- The date and place of death.
The registrar will then issue two Certificates.
- Green Disposal Certificate (this must be given to us)
- The Death Certificate
The Death Certificate is a copy of the entry into the register, it is not required by us for any part of the funeral arrangements.
You should obtain sufficient copies of the Death Certificate for insurance companies and banks, etc.
There is a small fee to be paid for the Certificates.
