Questions about burials

In cemeteries where continuous concrete foundations have been laid, memorials can be erected on lawn graves, 'almost' immediately.

Where individual foundations are provided for lawn memorials, ideally these will be situated on un-dug ground at the head end of the grave. In these circumstances and with the use of ground anchors and fixings that comply with British Standard 8415 and the National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM) code of practice, it is still possible to erect a memorial almost immediately.

In cemeteries where the headstone is erected directly on the excavated area of the grave, there may be a period stipulated in the cemetery regulations which gives the ground time to settle and consolidate. During this period the cemetery staff should monitor any sinkage that becomes apparent and top up periodically with topsoil until settlement ceases. This period may differ around the country due to differing soil types and conditions. Even after settlement has ceased, it is advisable to ensure that your memorial mason adopts the NAMM Code of Practice as mentioned above.