What it costs to register a death in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council
Last reviewed May 2026
The short answer
Registration itself is free. You'll pay for certified copies of the death certificate, currently £12.50 each in England and Wales. Most families buy 3–8 copies.
You don't need to book
Once the medical examiner has reviewed the paperwork, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council's register office will call you to arrange the appointment. If you haven't heard within a few working days, call them on 01202 123 777.
Check the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council register office pageThe appointment is booked with the council on their own website, not with Alenity. The link opens in a new tab.
Get guidance on the next steps
Find practical guidance on funeral, probate and property questions alongside help with notification admin.
More about certificate fees and copies
Fees in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council
| Registering the death | Free |
| Certified copy at registration | £12.50 |
| Extra copy ordered later (postal) | £12.50 |
| Certificate for burial / cremation ("green form") | Free |
Fees are statutory and reviewed periodically by central government. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council cannot charge more than the published rate.
How many copies should you buy?
- One copy per bank account that's NOT covered by the Death Notification Service
- One copy for the solicitor or probate registry (originals are returned)
- One copy for each pension provider
- One copy for HMRC if you're handling inheritance tax separately
- One spare to keep with the estate paperwork
Buying extras at the appointment is cheaper than ordering more later by post, registrars charge the same fee whether you take one or ten in the same session.
Official Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council register-a-death page
Related guides
What is probate?
What it means, when you need it, what it costs and how to apply yourself.
What to do when someone dies
The full UK checklist, from the first 24 hours through probate.
Death admin checklist
A week-by-week task list. Printable PDF available.
Tell Us Once explained
How the free government service notifies HMRC, DWP and your council in one go.
Closing accounts after death
Step-by-step for banks, utilities, pensions and subscriptions.
Bereavement financial help
Benefits and grants you may be entitled to claim.
Probate explained
When you need it, what it costs, and whether you need a solicitor.
Arranging a funeral
Every option and what it costs, and how to choose a funeral director.
Prepare your probate application
Gather the estate details, check what you need and build a pack before you apply yourself.
Funeral cost calculator
Estimate a funeral for your area and the choices you are making.
