When a Death Occurs at Home: Understanding the First Steps

When a death occurs at home, it can be an emotional and overwhelming experience, particularly if you are unsure of what to do next. Knowing the appropriate steps to take can help bring clarity and reassurance during a very difficult time, ensuring everything is handled respectfully and correctly.

The first thing to understand is that before a funeral director can take a loved one into their care, official confirmation of death is required. This is provided through specific documentation—either a Medical Certificate Cause of Death (commonly referred to as a Form 9) or a Life Extinct form. Without this paperwork, a transfer cannot legally take place.

The process of arranging this documentation depends on the circumstances of the death—specifically, whether it was expected or unexpected. Each situation requires a different response, and understanding this distinction is key to knowing how to proceed.

Unexpected deaths at home

If a death is sudden or unexpected, such as from a heart attack or unknown cause, the first step is to contact Emergency Services by calling Triple Zero (000). Police and ambulance officers will attend and assess the situation. They will determine whether the death needs to be referred to the Coroner’s Court of Queensland for further investigation.

It’s important to note that being referred to the coroner does not imply wrongdoing—it is a standard process in certain circumstances. However, it may mean that funeral arrangements cannot proceed immediately, as the necessary investigations and procedures need to be completed first.

Expected deaths at home

In cases where a death is expected—such as when a person has been living with a terminal illness—the process is usually more straightforward. The attending doctor will already be aware of the person’s condition and can complete the required Medical Certificate Cause of Death.

If the person was receiving care from palliative care nurses, they may attend and complete a Life Extinct form, with the doctor finalising the certificate shortly after. Once this documentation is completed, you can then contact your chosen funeral director to begin arrangements.

After contacting the funeral director

Once the necessary paperwork is in place and a funeral director has been contacted, they will arrange for a transfer team to come to the home. Typically, they aim to arrive promptly—often within an hour—to bring your loved one into their care.

However, there is no pressure to rush this process. Families are encouraged to take the time they need, whether that means waiting for other loved ones to arrive or simply spending a few quiet moments together. The transfer will only take place when you feel ready.

Having a clear understanding of these steps can help ease some of the uncertainty during a very emotional time. While nothing can take away the grief of losing someone, knowing what to do—and when—can provide a sense of calm and control.

Quick Guide: What to Do When a Death Occurs at Home

• Unexpected death – Call Triple Zero (000) for emergency services
• Expected death – Contact the person’s doctor or nursing service
• Once paperwork is completed – Call your funeral director to arrange transfer

You can listen to Luke’s interview with 104.9 Sunshine FM’s host Chris Wordsworth about Deaths at Home now on YouTube.