Buying a grave
Information about buying a grave.
How do I purchase the Exclusive Right of Burial for a grave?
Normally, your funeral director will help to make the necessary arrangements for Purchasing the Exclusive Right of Burial.
Some people may want to make their own arrangements at the time of the funeral. You can organise this by directly contacting us. We will be happy to advise you. If you would like to view the section of the cemetery where the burial is to take place before the funeral, we will arrange for a member of staff to meet with you on the site.
What is meant by the Exclusive Right of Burial for a grave?
See Guide to Exclusive Right of Burial
How long can I purchase the Exclusive Right of Burial for?
The Exclusive Right of Burial is sold for 75 years. These are known as 'purchased graves'.
Who can Purchase the Exclusive Right of Burial for a grave?
Any one over the age of 18 can buy a grave space in the Borough's cemeteries.
When can burials take place?
Burials can take place on any weekday, except on bank holidays. Please talk to your funeral director or contact us to discuss any specific needs.
What types of graves are available?
Lawn-type graves
These are graves that have a memorial located at the head of the grave and the grave grassed over.
We will maintain the lawn areas, at no additional expense to the grave owner.
After the burial, the grave is allowed to settle for a minimum period of 12 months after which, the grave is made level and grassed over.
So that we can maintain these areas, nothing else is allowed to be placed or grown on or around the grave.
Can I bury Cremated Remains in the Cemeteries?
Yes, there are memorial gardens for Cremated Remains at each of our cemeteries. Cremated Remains can also be placed in purchased graves.
Can I purchase a grave in reserve?
Yes, lawn type graves and Cremated Remains graves can be purchased in reserve
Are all the graves on consecrated ground?
No, the current burial sections within our cemeteries are not consecrated, although some of the older burial sections with Robin Hood Cemetery are consecrated
What is the difference between unpurchased and purchased graves?
Unpurchased grave
An unpurchased grave, sometimes known as a public or common grave, is where the Exclusive Right of Burial cannot be purchased and the Council has total control of the grave.
The Council will decide who will be buried in the grave and this might not be members of the same family.
No memorial rights exist on these graves, so no headstone or other memorial can be placed.
Purchased grave
A purchased grave is where the Exclusive Right of Burial has been purchased for a period of 75 years,
Only the owner of the Exclusive Right of Burial can decide who will be buried in the grave and memorials are allowed in line with our Memorial Regulations.
How much will it cost to purchase the Exclusive Right of Burial?
See Cemetery Charges
How much will it cost to have an interment in a grave?
See Cemetery Charges
What type of memorial can I have on a grave
We know how important memorials are as a lasting symbol of remembrance.
We offer technical advice and help to make sure that all memorials meet cemetery regulations.
Can I transfer the Exclusive Right of Burial
The Exclusive Right of Burial can be transferred please contact us for more information on transfer procedure.
The Exclusive Right of Burial can also be bequeathed in the 'Will' of the present owner
Contact Details
For more information please contact Bereavement Services
Telephone: 0121 744 1121
Email: robinhoodcemetery@solihull.gov.uk