FAQ

Find clear, helpful information about our funeral services, arrangements, pricing, and what to expect. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, our compassionate team is always here to help.

Deceased Removal Questions

Can you collect from a home, hospital, or care facility?

Yes. We can respectfully collect your loved one from a private residence, hospital, hospice, nursing home, or any other authorised location.

Which documents are required when collecting the deceased?

The required documents depend on where your loved one has passed away.

In most cases, we will require:

  • The original ID of the deceased (if available)
  • The original ID of the next of kin or authorised representative
  • The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (DHA-1663/BI-1663), completed by the attending doctor (where applicable)
  • Any hospital or care facility release documentation (if the death occurred in a hospital or care facility)

If the death occurred at home, we will also require:

  • A Police Report (SAPS Case/Occurrence Report), if applicable
  • An Ambulance Report confirming the death

If you're unsure which documents are required, don't worry. Simply give us a call, and our compassionate team will guide you through the entire process and advise you on exactly what is needed.

Which areas do you serve?


We proudly serve Cape Town and the surrounding areas. If you are outside our service area, please contact us and we will do our best to assist.

How soon can you collect my loved one?


We aim to arrange collection as quickly as possible once all the necessary information has been received.

Do I need to be present during the removal?

Not always. While it is helpful for a family member or authorised representative to be present, we can make alternative arrangements where necessary and will guide you through the process.

Death Registration Questions

Who registers the death?

We do. As part of our service, Lodphil Funeral Services will register the death with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf. Please allow 2 to 4 business days for the registration to be completed. Processing times may vary depending on when the attending doctor provides the required medical documentation.

Which documents are required

To register the death, we generally require the following:

  • The original ID of the deceased
  • The original ID of the informant (next of kin)
  • The deceased's residential address
  • A copy of the marriage certificate (if the deceased was married)

Additional documents may be required in certain circumstances.

Who is the informant?

The informant is usually the next of kin or the person legally responsible for the funeral arrangements. This person authorises Lodphil Funeral Services to register the death with the Department of Home Affairs on behalf of the family.

Will I receive the original IDs back?

Yes, in most cases you will receive the following documents once the registration process has been completed:

  • The original ID of the deceased
  • The original ID of the informant
  • The official Death Certificate
  • A copy of the DHA-1663 BI (Death Registration Form)
  • The Burial Order

We will notify you as soon as these documents are ready for collection.

Can I arrange the funeral before the death has been registered?

Yes. Funeral arrangements can begin immediately and do not have to wait for the death registration to be completed. We will assist with the registration process while helping you plan the funeral, ensuring everything is ready once the necessary documents have been issued by the Department of Home Affairs.