What can families do regarding the casket for a deceased individual?

Families are allowed to provide their own casket for a deceased individual, but this often comes with the requirement of signing waivers. The necessity for waivers typically arises because the funeral establishment wants to ensure that the casket meets certain standards for safety and compliance with local regulations. These waivers protect the funeral service provider from liability in case the casket provided by the family does not meet the necessary criteria or causes issues during the handling or burial process.

Funeral providers must comply with the regulations set out in the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, which allows families the option to provide their own caskets. However, the signing of a waiver serves as an acknowledgment that the family understands the potential risks and responsibilities associated with providing their own casket. This approach balances family autonomy in funeral planning with the legal and operational responsibilities of the funeral home.