When Someone Dies at Home: What to Do & Who to Call

Losing a loved one at home can feel very emotional, whether it was expected or not. In those first moments, a range of different feelings can take over: shock, grief, confusion, or even a sense of panic about what needs to be done. You might be here because you’ve just experienced a loss and need immediate guidance, or perhaps you’re preparing in advance, wanting to understand the steps for when the time comes.

Whatever your reason for reading, it’s completely natural to feel unsure about what to do next. Who do you call first? What happens if the death was unexpected? What are the legal and practical steps that follow? These are difficult questions, and in a time of loss, finding clear and compassionate answers can make all the difference.

This guide intends to gently walk you through each step, helping you understand who to call, what to expect, and how to handle the formalities without feeling lost in the process. 

Key takeaways:

• Expected death: Contact GP or NHS 111 for medical certificate.
• Unexpected death: Call 999 immediately.
• Register the death within 5 days at the local registry office (8 days in Scotland).
• Arrange the funeral after registering the death.
• Unattended deaths: Police and coroner may investigate.

Immediate steps to take when someone dies at home

The moments after a loved one dies at home can feel surreal. While every situation is different, there are a few essential steps to take to be sure that everything is handled properly. 

Who to call first

The first call you make depends on whether the death was expected or unexpected.

• If the death was expected, such as for someone receiving palliative or hospice care, you should contact their GP or the doctor who has been overseeing their care. If it’s out of hours, call the NHS 111 service. A medical professional will visit to confirm the death and issue a medical certificate.
• If the death was unexpected, you should call 999 immediately. Paramedics will attend and assess the situation. If the cause of death isn’t immediately clear, the police may also be required to attend.

Hospice nurses and palliative care teams or other end-of-life professionals such as death doulas can also help guide families through this process if the person was receiving care at home.

What to do while waiting for authorities

• Keep the environment calm: If possible, create a calm and comfortable environment around the person who has died. This is a meaningful way to show respect, and many people find comfort in the sense of energy that they feel after someone dies.
• Avoid unnecessary movement : It’s best to leave the person as they are, unless resuscitation is being attempted.
• Know when CPR is appropriate: If you find someone unresponsive and weren’t expecting their death, call 999 and follow their guidance. If the person was under palliative care, resuscitation is usually not advised.

Expected vs. unexpected death at home

The process after an expected death at home

If the person was receiving end-of-life care, a doctor or nurse will confirm the death. Once confirmed:

• A Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)  will be issued. This is needed to register the death.
• You can then contact a funeral director to arrange for the person to be moved. Some families choose to spend a little time with their loved one at home before this happens.

What happens when someone dies at home unexpectedly?

Dealing with the unexpected death of a loved one can be an emotional whirlwind, making it hard to know how to cope. While nothing can truly prepare you for this moment, knowing what to do next can bring some clarity during a difficult time. 

If the death was sudden or there was no recent medical history suggesting it was likely, the process is different than that of an expected death:

• Emergency services will attend and determine whether the death is natural.
• If there’s any doubt about the cause, police will be involved. This is standard procedure, even when nothing suspicious is suspected.
• In cases where the cause of death isn’t immediately clear, the coroner (or procurator fiscal in Scotland) may investigate and a post-mortem may be needed.

It can feel distressing to have the police or coroner involved, but it’s important to know that this is routine in certain situations.

The next steps after a death at home

Once a death has been confirmed:

• If a funeral director has been chosen, they will arrange for the person to be collected and taken into their care.
• If a coroner is involved, the person may need to be taken to a local mortuary for further examination.

Families often have the option to keep their loved one at home for a short while if they wish, allowing time for personal goodbyes before they are moved.

Legal & administrative processes

• Registering the death – The death must be registered within five days in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (eight days in Scotland). This is done at a local register office, using the medical certificate. After you register the death, you may find it helpful to use the Tell Us Once service. This service simplifies notifying government agencies of a death by informing multiple departments at once.
• Death certificate – Once registered, an official death certificate is issued. Copies may be needed for handling legal matters like wills and pensions.
• Funeral arrangements – The funeral can now be planned according to personal, religious, or family preferences, or with instruction from a prepaid funeral plan.

Honouring a loved one with a simple, respectful funeral

After a loved one has died, deciding on their final arrangements can feel like a lot to deal with. Some families find comfort in a traditional funeral, while others prefer a simpler, more private option. If you’re looking for an uncomplicated, affordable choice, Aura’s at-need direct cremation services provide a dignified goodbye without the extras of a formal ceremony.

Aura’s direct cremation services

Unlike many other providers who only offer unattended cremations, Aura gives families the choice between a simple, private direct cremation or an attended cremation service. Whether you prefer a no-fuss funeral without a service or want the opportunity to be present and say a final goodbye, Aura provides flexible options to suit your wishes. With both choices, you can expect the same level of care, dignity, and transparent pricing, ensuring that your loved one’s service is handled with compassion and respect.

Our experienced and dedicated team of Aura Angels takes care of everything, from the respectful collection of your loved one to the cremation itself, without the complexities of planning a traditional ceremony. We offer clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs, ensuring families have one less thing to worry about during what can be an already overwhelming time. With 24/7 support, we’re here whenever you need us, offering guidance and reassurance every step of the way.

Handling practical matters in the first few days

In the days immediately following a loved one’s death, there are practical matters that may need attention. It’s understandable to feel emotionally unprepared for these tasks, and there’s no right or wrong way to approach them. Some people find comfort in taking action, while others may need time before addressing these practical concerns. Below are some key considerations to help guide you through these early days.

What to do with personal belongings

One of the most difficult decisions after a death is what to do with a loved one’s personal items. Some people choose to leave everything as it is for a while, allowing time to process their grief before making any changes. Others prefer to gradually start sorting through belongings, especially if they need to manage the person’s home.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider these gentle steps:

• Give yourself permission to wait – There is no urgency to pack everything away unless required for practical reasons.
• Set small, manageable goals – You might begin with just one drawer, a wardrobe, or specific personal items.
• Ask for help – Friends or family can offer support when sorting through possessions feels like too much.
• Consider sentimental keepsakes – Some items may hold special meaning, while others can be donated or gifted to those who would appreciate them.

If the person lived in rented accommodation, check their tenancy agreement. Some landlords require personal belongings to be cleared within a certain timeframe, while others may be more flexible. If needed, contact the landlord or housing provider to discuss options.

Managing the person’s home

If your loved one lived alone, their home may require immediate attention. Even in the midst of grief, there are pragmatic steps to consider:

• Securing the property – Ensure doors and windows are locked to keep the home safe. If they had home insurance, check whether it remains valid and notify the provider if needed.
• Caring for pets – If the person who has died had pets, arranging temporary or permanent care is important. You may be able to place them with family, friends, or rehoming charities such as the Cinnamon Trust if needed.
• Dealing with post and deliveries – Redirecting mail through Royal Mail’s Bereavement Service can help prevent distressing reminders. Canceling unnecessary deliveries and subscriptions is also useful.
• Handling utilities and household bills – Gas, electricity, and water providers should be informed, as well as TV, internet, and phone companies. Many providers have bereavement teams to guide you through the process with sensitivity.

If the property is owned, it will usually become part of the person’s estate. If they left a will, the executor will handle decisions about the home. If there is no will, the legal process may take longer, and seeking advice from a solicitor or Citizens Advice may help.

Immediate financial considerations

Losing a loved one can bring unexpected financial challenges, and while many things can wait, some matters may need prompt attention.

• Notifying banks and financial institutions – It’s important to contact the person’s bank to prevent unauthorised transactions. Most banks have a bereavement service to help manage accounts, savings, and pensions.
• Stopping direct debits and standing orders – Review any ongoing payments, such as subscriptions, utilities, and insurance policies, to avoid unnecessary charges.
• Checking for available benefits and financial assistance – If you were financially dependent on the person who has died, you may be eligible for bereavement benefits, such as the Bereavement Support Payment (for spouses and civil partners).
• Covering funeral costs – If there’s no prepaid funeral plan in place, the estate may be used to cover expenses. In cases of financial hardship, government or charitable assistance may be available.

Handling these practical matters can feel daunting, but support is available. It’s okay to take things step by step, asking for help when needed. Many organisations, including funeral directors, banks, and legal advisors, have teams trained to assist bereaved families with sensitivity and understanding.

Who handles the investigation in certain cases?

When the police are involved

If the death was unexpected, the police may attend to determine if there’s any reason for further investigation. This doesn’t necessarily mean anything suspicious has happened, it’s simply a legal requirement in certain cases.

When a coroner is required

A coroner is involved when:

• The cause of death is unknown.
• The death was sudden, violent, or happened in unusual circumstances.

The coroner may order a post-mortem or inquest to determine the cause of death before issuing the necessary documents for burial or cremation.

Additional considerations after a death at home

Informing family & loved ones

It can feel hard to figure out how to announce a death to friends and family. Talking about death and dying isn’t something many of us are accustomed to, so it’s completely normal to feel anxious or worried. You might choose to:

• Call immediate family first before spreading the news further.
• Ask a close friend or relative to help inform others.
• Consider waiting until you feel emotionally ready to make certain calls.

Support is available, whether through bereavement charities, grief counsellors, or simply loved ones offering comfort.

Organising a funeral or memorial service

Once the legal steps are handled, you can begin thinking about a funeral or memorial service that reflects your loved one’s wishes. 

If you haven’t already chosen a funeral director, selecting one can help with the practical arrangements and make sure everything is handled smoothly. You’ll also need to decide on the type of funeral service that best reflects your loved one’s wishes if they haven’t left any instruction. 

Does a more traditional funeral feel right, or would a modern funeral feel more aligned with your loved one? Would they prefer a minimal direct cremation, a non-religious service, or a personalised celebration of life?  Adding personal touches, such as meaningful music, readings, or special tributes, can make the ceremony feel even more heartfelt and unique.

Aura is here to help

Few people feel truly prepared for what to do when someone dies at home.But by knowing the steps to take, you can feel a little more in control of the situation. It’s okay to take things one step at a time. Reach out for support, whether from professionals, family, or friends, and remember that help is available whenever you need it.

Aura is here to guide you through every stage of arranging a straightforward funeral, offering clear advice, practical assistance, and a caring hand when you need it most.

Whether you need immediate help arranging a direct cremation or simply have questions about what happens next, our team is available to provide reassurance and guidance. We believe in making this process as simple and as human as possible, so you can focus on remembering your loved one in a way that feels right for you.

If you ever need us, Aura is just a phone call away.