Why should you compare the cost of funerals?
Numerous consumer studies and reports (please see below), have shown that funeral service charges can vary significantly within any local area. Our own research for the Suffolk region alone, has confirmed this to be so with funeral director charges varying by up to 40% for the same service on a like for like basis. Even more concerning is the fact that the higher tariffs do not reflect or guarantee a better quality service, with evidences of sub standard services being provided by some of the more expensive providers.

All of which clearly demonstrate the need to compare and investigate the prices and choices being offered, before employing the services of any funeral director. When we need to decide on the choice of a family holiday or any similar expense, we will usually turn to independent and trustworthy advice before making a decision. Surely it makes sense to ensure that we apply the same governing principles in relation to good service and value for money, when embarking upon one of the most important and emotional expenditures we are ever likely to make.

Funeral Costs are soaring
A recent report by GMTV stated that the cost of funerals has risen by 7.2% in the past year to £2,733 and it is estimated that if prices continue to rise at their recent rate, a funeral will cost £3,580 by 2014 - 31% more than now.

Funeral costs increase by 42% in last 5 years
According to a report in the Telegraph by Consumer Affairs Editor Harry Wallop funeral costs have increased by 42% over the last 5 years, with the "total cost of dying" now topping £7,000 according to a study by the market research firm Mintel. A lack of competition with families understandably uncomfortable about shopping around for a good deal, has led to the average price of funerals increasing from £1,920 in 2004 to £2,733 this year.

Add to that the cost of probate - the legal process of sorting out a deceased person's estate - flowers for the funeral, the cost of hiring a venue and paying for a headstone and the total cost of dying, according to Mintel, is now £7,098. The study pointed out that in 46% of cases families had not made provision for the cost of the funeral of their relative, leaving them to dip into the value of their estate or own savings to pay for it. Paul Dwyer, a consultant on funeral matters, pointed out that most people booked the first undertaker they came across and felt too distressed or uncomfortable to ensure they got the best deal.

When death in the family equals debt
Earlier this year in the The Observer it was reported that steep rises in funeral charges are leaving bereaved relatives having to deal with debt collectors and are even delaying some funerals as families struggle to pay fees in advance of the funeral. It also stated the following;  The high cost of funerals often comes as a nasty shock. "People tend not to plan for death and many clients say that it is sudden expenses that tip them into a spiral of debt that is hard to get out of," says Judith Moran, director of Quaker Social Action.

Funeral Directors are also reporting that customers' debts are becoming an increasingly common problem. "We have seen a significant rise in people struggling to pay their bills over the last 18 months," says John Weir of the Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors. The other leading industry body, the National Association of Funeral Directors, has teamed up with debt enforcement agency the Debt Recovery Bureau (DRB). "If a funeral director wants us to, we'll go to court and use bailiffs, attachment of earnings or even place a charge on someone's property to recover money that is owed."

Peace of Mind over costs and standards of service
At Funeral Expert we fully understand the difficulties and challenges involved in securing the best service at the best price, without having to compromise on the professionalism of the service provided. Our expertise and in depth knowledge of the funeral industry enables us to secure complete peace of mind for you, over both the value and quality of the funeral service provider you decide upon. To find out exactly how we can do this for you please visit our services or contact us for free no obligation advice.


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