What to do when someone dies at home
Last reviewed June 2026 by Naomi Jackson
Short answer
Most deaths at home are expected. The process is straightforward but it can feel overwhelming in the moment, here's a calm, ordered checklist.
Expected death (e.g. end-of-life care)
Call the GP or the district nursing team. Out of hours, call 111. They'll send a doctor or nurse to verify the death. There's no need to dial 999.
Unexpected death
Call 999 immediately. Paramedics will confirm the death. Police may attend, this is routine for any death outside a medical setting. The death will be referred to the coroner.
After verification
Take your time. The verifying clinician will give you paperwork or tell you when the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death will be issued. You can then call a funeral director to collect the person, they'll come to the house at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to choose a funeral director straight away?
No. The body can stay at home for as long as you need, or a funeral director can collect them and you can decide about the funeral later.
Will the police investigate?
Police attend any unexpected home death as standard procedure. They're not investigating you, they're confirming there's nothing suspicious so the death can be released to the family.
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