Access to graves

Sometimes we may need to access a grave next to yours for a burial. If we do, we will put a cover over your memorial to make sure it is protected. We may also need to place soil on the grave. This will last no more than a few days.

On very rare occasions we may have to remove memorials so we can access a grave. If this happens we will take full responsibility for replacing your memorial in safe, clean condition after the funeral.

Safety checks and repairs

To make sure the cemetery is a safe place for visitors and staff we need to carry out safety checks on memorials. If your memorial is unstable, we will put up a temporary support for it and contact you to explain that repairs are needed. You are responsible for keeping your memorial in a safe condition and if repair is not carried out within a reasonable time we can take action to make it safe.

Unfortunately vandalism does happen in cemeteries. We will prosecute anyone caught causing vandalism but we cannot be held liable for any damage caused. We strongly recommend you insure your memorial - your stonemason can advise you about this.

Repairs and cleaning must be carried out by a stonemason listed on the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM). You should apply for permission before the work is carried out by contacting us online (select "Other service").

Please make sure you tell us if you change address. If there is a problem with the grave or memorial and we can't contact you, we can act to put the problem right. If there is a cost for taking action we may ask you to pay us back before you can make any new burials.