The funeral industry is one that operates on trust, compassion, and transparency. Families rely on funeral directors to guide them through some of the most challenging moments in life. In recognition of this, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has introduced a new compliance checklist as part of the Funerals Market Investigation Order 2021. While this checklist is intended to support funeral directors in meeting their legal obligations, it also signals the potential for greater scrutiny and enforcement in the future.

If you’re a funeral director, this is your opportunity to get ahead of the curve, address any potential gaps, and demonstrate your commitment to transparency and professionalism.

Why the Compliance Checklist Matters

The CMA’s compliance checklist is not just a helpful tool—it’s a clear message that the industry must meet higher standards of transparency and fairness. It focuses on ensuring that consumers can access clear, consistent, and accurate information about funeral services, enabling them to make informed decisions during difficult times.

For funeral directors, this checklist provides a structured way to review and align your practices with legal requirements. However, it’s also a soft warning: businesses that fail to comply risk further scrutiny or enforcement action. Here’s a closer look at what the checklist covers and why it’s crucial to act now.

Key Areas of Compliance

The compliance checklist highlights several critical areas where funeral directors must focus their efforts:

1. Transparent Pricing

One of the central requirements is the display of a Standardised Price List (SPL). This must include:

• An itemised breakdown of costs for attended funerals, covering six specified components (e.g., collection of the deceased, care before the funeral, a hearse).
• A total price for attended funerals.
• Total prices for unattended funerals (e.g., direct cremations or burials).
• A price for every service or product on the list, even if it is as minimal as one penny.

Where to Display the SPL:

• In-branch: Ensure it is prominently displayed where families can easily see it.
• Online: If your business has a website, the SPL must be accessible within one click from the homepage. If you don’t have a website, the SPL should be available on any platform where your services are marketed.

Transparency in pricing helps families compare options and ensures they are not left with unexpected costs during an already stressful time.

2. Additional Options Price List

Beyond the SPL, funeral directors must also provide a detailed list of any additional services or products they offer. This includes items like floral arrangements, memorials, or limousine hire. Prices should be clear and accessible, giving clients a full understanding of their options.

3. Local Crematorium Pricing

To further support informed decision-making, funeral directors must display up-to-date pricing information for local crematoriums. Families need this information to weigh their options and understand the full cost of their chosen arrangements.

4. Terms of Business

Your terms of business must be clear and comprehensive. This includes:

• Deposit requirements.
• Payment schedules.
• Accepted payment methods.
• Late payment charges (if applicable).

Transparency in these areas helps families feel secure in their financial commitments and prevents misunderstandings.

5. Disclosure of Interests

The checklist also emphasises the importance of disclosing any affiliations or business interests that could present a conflict of interest. For example:

• Are you connected to a particular crematorium or cemetery?
• Have you received donations or payments from third parties?

Being upfront about these relationships builds trust with clients and aligns with the CMA’s goal of fostering transparency in the industry.

6. Avoiding Prohibited Practices

Finally, funeral directors must avoid any practices explicitly prohibited by the Funerals Market Investigation Order. Understanding and adhering to these restrictions is critical for compliance.

What This Means for the Future

While the checklist is positioned as a resource, it’s also a clear indication that the CMA is closely monitoring the funeral sector. This proactive approach to compliance is your chance to avoid potential issues down the line.

The consequences of non-compliance could include:

• Audits or investigations by the CMA.
• Fines or other penalties.
• Reputational damage, which can be especially harmful in an industry built on trust.

By addressing these areas now, you not only protect your business but also demonstrate your commitment to supporting families with transparency and integrity.

Taking Action Today

The introduction of the compliance checklist is a turning point for the funeral industry. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you’re on the right track:

• Review the Checklist Thoroughly: Use it as a framework to assess your current practices.
• Update Your Pricing Information: Ensure your SPL and additional options price list are clear, accurate, and displayed as required.
• Audit Your Terms of Business: Make sure all relevant details are included and easy to understand.
• Disclose Any Interests: Be upfront about any affiliations or potential conflicts of interest.
• Train Your Staff: Make sure your team understands the requirements and how to communicate them to clients.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from the CMA to ensure ongoing compliance.

A Final Thought

The CMA’s compliance checklist is more than a legal requirement—it’s an opportunity to strengthen the foundations of your business. By prioritising transparency and fairness, you not only meet the expectations of regulators but also build trust and confidence with the families you serve.

Now is the time to act. Review the checklist, make the necessary changes, and position your business as a leader in providing clear, compassionate, and compliant funeral services.

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