How to Choose a Funeral Director
Choosing a funeral director is one of the most important decisions you'll make during a difficult time. This guide helps you compare prices, ask the right questions, and find a funeral director you can trust.
1. Start with CMA Standardised Prices
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) requires every UK funeral director to publish a Standardised Price List. This is the most powerful tool for comparing funeral costs.
What to check in the price list:
- Attended funeral total — The overall cost of a traditional funeral with a service
- Unattended funeral total — The cost of a direct cremation (no service)
- Individual item prices — Check each of the 6 CMA items — some directors charge significantly more for specific items like legal arrangements or the coffin
- Additional options — Compare prices for extras like order of service printing, limousines, or flowers
Use our comparison tool to see 100funeral directors' prices side-by-side. The difference between the most and least expensive director in your area can be thousands of pounds for the same CMA basket of items.
2. Consider Location and Distance
Most funeral directors serve a local area. The CMA price list standard includes transport within 20 miles — anything beyond that may incur additional charges. When choosing:
- Choose a funeral director within a reasonable distance of both the deceased's home and the crematorium or cemetery
- Check if the director has branches nearer to you — national chains like Co-op and Dignity often have local branches with consistent pricing
- Some independent directors charge the same regardless of distance within their service area
3. Check Reviews and Reputation
While price is important, the quality of care and service matters enormously. Look for:
- Online reviews — Check Funeral Guide, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and our review system
- Professional memberships — Many reputable directors belong to NAFD (National Association of Funeral Directors), SAIF (Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors), or NACCF (National Association of Cemetery and Crematorium Funeral Directors)
- Local reputation — Ask friends and family for personal recommendations
- Years in business — Long-established directors often have deeper local knowledge and connections
4. Visit the Funeral Home and Ask Questions
Most funeral directors welcome visits. The premises should be clean, welcoming, and professional. Don't be afraid to ask:
Questions to ask a funeral director:
- "Can I see your CMA Standardised Price List?" — They must provide it by law
- "Are the prices on your price list all-inclusive?" — Some items like cremation fees may be additional
- "What happens if costs increase between now and the funeral?" — Some directors guarantee their quoted price
- "Do you offer payment plans or can you help with funeral expenses support?" — Many can signpost to DWP Funeral Payments
- "Can you arrange a funeral for a specific religion or belief?" — Check they can accommodate specific cultural or religious requirements
- "What happens if I need to change or cancel arrangements?" — Understand the cancellation policy
5. National Chain vs Independent
Both national chains and independent funeral directors have their advantages:
National Chains
- Consistent pricing across branches
- Larger fleet of vehicles
- 24/7 availability
- May be more expensive
Independent Directors
- Often more affordable
- Personal, local service
- Flexible arrangements
- Deep community ties
6. Understand What You're Paying For
A funeral director's charges typically cover:
- Funeral director's fees — The professional services (arrangements, paperwork, care of deceased) — these are the CMA-standardised items
- Disbursements or third-party costs — Cremation or burial fees, doctor's fees, minister/celebrant fees, church fees, flowers, notices in newspapers
The CMA Standardised Price List covers the funeral director's fees. Third-party costs (disbursements) are usually listed separately — always ask for a full breakdown.
Compare funeral director prices now
Search our directory of 100 UK funeral directors with transparent CMA-standardised pricing. Compare side-by-side and find the right director for your needs.
Sources: CMA Funerals Market Investigation Order 2021, NAFD guidance, SAIF code of practice.