Your step-by-step guide in the event of a death.

What happens when someone dies.

You will receive a notice of death which states the identity, date, time and cause of death.
The deceased will be transported to a mortuary or a funeral home where an autopsy might be performed.
If it is ruled an accidental death, notify the police who will instruct the proceedings and arrange an autopsy at a state mortuary.
A death report will be issued along with a burial order. Note that cremation requires confirmation from a second doctor before the report is issued.
The Department of Home Affairs will issue a death certificate after receiving the notice of death and death report.
The executor of the deceased’s will requires the unabridged birth certificate and certified copies of claims on life insurance policies to finalise the estate.
The death must also be reported to the Master of the High Court.

If the deceased is an organ donor, please notify relevant parties as soon as possible.
Contact a funeral home to help with the funeral arrangements.
Collect the deceased’s ID, birth certificate, passport, and other important documents like their will or insurance policies. Bring the deceased’s will to the attention of the named executor.
Don’t forget to take care of the deceased’s pets and livestock.
Make sure the deceased’s home is secure.