Questions to Ask When Selecting a Funeral Home

While information can be gathered via the web or phone to narrow down choices, many families prefer to visit the specific facility being considered.

It's similar to choosing a wedding reception location. While you may have had positive experiences at a location for other weddings you've attended, it would be smart to visit that facility to ask questions regarding your own wedding reception needs. Both funerals and weddings are important family rituals that need to be planned carefully to get the most value and best experience out of them.

Here is a list of questions you may want to ask when comparing funeral homes.

Service

• Ask a social worker, nurse or hospice care worker how the funeral home handles the transfer of a former patient to the funeral home. How many people does the funeral home send? How are they dressed? In what condition do they leave the room? These are indicators of the level of respect given.
• Will a licensed funeral director be performing the embalming or cremation?
• Do they offer service choices such as a choice in hearses? Are they licensed to offer catering, beer and wine in their facilities? Can they telecast a funeral via the internet to those who cannot attend in person? Do they allow pets at funerals?
• What does follow-up after a service entail? Do they maintain current contact lists to help with legal, grief and senior resources? Does the facility offer a guarantee if you are not completely satisfied?
• How detailed is prearrangement documentation? Do they list manufacturer and proper names of merchandise? Are they able to provide guidance on both bank and insurance funding?

Staff

• Will the person arranging a service or gathering be licensed? What training above state requirements do staff members have? Are staff members specialists in their fields or does the same person that prepares a body oversee the planning of services and gatherings?
• Are they professional in appearance, words and actions? Are they sincere and attentive? How are you treated when you ask questions? Do they offer options?
• How many staff members will assist at a service or gathering? Will they provide people to greet, open doors, guide visitors and answer questions?
• Is the staff size large enough to handle multiple funerals at the same time?

Price

• Do they answer questions in a straightforward manner? Can you determine what is included and what you'll be charged extra for?
• Can the manufacturer and model of the merchandise be determined so that you can assess the value?

Trustworthiness and Reputation

• Do you get the overall impression that your wishes will be carried out as discussed? Will the funeral home change owners or direction in the near future? Will they treat your family, friends and clergy with respect?
• Will they provide other client references for you to contact, if desired?

Facilities

• Is there a chapel? Are there restrooms on the same floor or will attendees need to contend with stairs? Is the facility handicap accessible? Are there separate areas for children or immediate family members to have moments to themselves? Do they have reception facilities?
• How well is the facility maintained? What condition are the bathrooms? Are grounds and parking lots landscaped, cared for and well lit?