Deaths must be registered with the Registrar for Birth and Deaths in the area in which the death occurred.
When should a death be registered?
A death must be registered within 5 days unless the Registrar has given written permission to extend the period or if the coroner is involved.
Registrar contact details
You can find the contract details for the Registrar by searching here. Please check who is required to attend to register the death – it may be someone other than yourself.
If the coroner is involved
In the case that the death has been referred to the coroner, it cannot be registered until the Registrar has received authority from the coroner.
What information is needed to register a death?
You need the following information for the person who died:
- Medical certificate with the cause of death
- Full name including any previous names (e.g. maiden name)
- Date and place of birth
- Last address
- Occupation
- Full name, date of birth and occupation of their surviving/late spouse or civil partner if they were married
If available, you should also take these documents:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- National Insurance number
- NHS medical card
- Proof of address, e.g. utility bill
- Driving license
- Passport
You should also take identification (e.g. a driving licence) to show proof of your identity.
