Grave Exhumation Services in Singapore

Grave exhumation is a process that involves the removal of human remains from a burial plot. In Singapore, there are various reasons why grave exhumation may be necessary, ranging from the need for niche relocation to changes in burial policies.

Embrace Funeral Services offers professional exhumation services to assist families in navigating the intricacies of this process.

Our professional team can handle the entire process, from obtaining permits to coordinating transportation and logistics. With our meticulous attention to detail, we ensure that the exhumation is carried out with compassion and care.

What is grave exhumation?

Grave exhumation refers to the removal of human remains from a grave. This can be done due to various reasons, such as the expiration of the burial period or the need for relocation. In Singapore, the burial period is typically limited to 15 years, after which the remains may be exhumed.

Understanding the exhumation process

The exhumation process involves several steps. First, the necessary permits must be obtained from the National Environment Agency (NEA). These permits ensure that the exhumation is carried out in accordance with the legal requirements.

Once the permits are acquired, a team of professionals will conduct the exhumation. This includes funeral service providers who specialize in grave exhumation services. The graves will be carefully dug up, and the remains will be handled with utmost respect and care.

After the exhumation, the remains may undergo cremation or sea burial.

How can we assist in grave exhumation?

As part of our exhumation service and niche relocation services, we can help with the following:

Site surveying

First, registration and site surveying have to be done to determine the chances of recovery. This allows the gravediggers to study and take into account the conditions of the burial site e.g. the soil conditions before they commence the exhuming process.

Applying of Exhumation permit

Grave exhumation in Singapore requires the necessary permits from the National Environment Agency (NEA). These permits ensure that the exhumation is carried out in compliance with the legal requirements. We will apply for the permit on your behalf. You don’t have to worry.

Transportation and logistics for exhumation

Embrace Funeral Services can assist families with the transportation and logistics involved in grave exhumation. This includes coordinating the necessary vehicles and equipment for the exhumation process.

Assisting with the ceremonies and prayers

We  can also provide support during the ceremonies and prayers that may be conducted before, during, or after the exhumation process.

Whether it is arranging for a religious officiant or providing guidance on appropriate rituals, Embrace funeral services can assist families in honoring their loved ones during the exhumation process.

Post Exhumation

Upon exhumation of the grave, debris is cleared from the tomb. New soil is subsequently provided to fill up the exhumed burial site.

Cremation of Ashes

If the family wishes to cremate the remains, Embrace Funeral Services provides cremation services. Exhumed remains will then be cremated at the columbarium. The government will bear the cost of a niche at the public columbarium (when specific conditions are met).

Our staff at Embrace Funeral Services will assist the family in the purchasing of beautiful urns and marble slabs. We will also guide you through the steps to ensure that the urns are stored safely in either the public or private columbarium of your choice

Transportation of Ashes

The funeral service staff will transport the cremated remains to the relevant columbarium. An umbrella is used to prevent the ashes from being exposed to the direct sunlight. We make sure to carefully and delicately place the cremated remains into the urn, alongside other offerings and auspicious items.

By entrusting the logistics to professionals, families can focus on the emotional aspects of the exhumation and grieving process.

Choosing a new resting place for the remains

Selecting a new resting place for the remains is a significant decision. Families can opt for a cemetery, columbarium, or even a sea burial, depending on their preferences and beliefs.

Additionally, families who wish to opt for sea burial will also have the necessary arrangements done by us via boat or on shore.

Embrace Funeral Services offers assistance in exploring different options and finding a suitable final resting place that aligns with the deceased’s and family’s wishes.

Why work with us?

At Embrace Funeral Services, we believe in providing a meaningful and dignified closure for both the deceased and the grieving family. While ensuring that the deceased transitions smoothly into the afterlife, we want to help grieving families deal with this difficult period with utmost care and professionalism.

We take great importance in ensuring that the desires and needs of the deceased and each family are taken well care of. With our years of experience in handling various religious and non-religious funerals, we are knowledgeable to deliver a professional service that is customised to the way you desire to give your final send-off to your loved ones.

Is grave exhumation necessary? 4 Reasons for grave exhumation

There are several reasons why grave exhumation may be necessary.

Reason 1

One common reason is the need for niche relocation. As burial policies in Singapore change, many families choose to relocate the remains of their loved ones to a columbarium. This policy aims to make efficient use of limited burial ground space and ensure that there is adequate space for future burials.  “The New Burial Policy” was first introduced in 1988 to help Singapore tackle land scarcity.

Reason 2

Another reason for grave exhumation is the expiration of the burial period. In Singapore, due to land scarcity concerns, graves are typically leased for a limited period, usually 15 years. After this period, the remains may be exhumed and relocated.

Reason 3

Family considerations also play a role in grave exhumation. Some families may choose to relocate the remains of their loved ones to a burial ground that aligns with their religious beliefs or traditions. This ensures that the deceased’s final resting place is in line with their family’s religious practices.

This gives families an added advantage i.e. the flexibility of selecting an auspicious time period for the exhumation to be conducted. While removing hassle for them in future dates when the burial period limit is reached, it also provides peace for families with the assurance that the entire process has been done properly according to their desires.

Reason 4

Additionally, grave exhumation may be necessary for cremation. If a family decides to cremate their loved one’s remains, the grave must be exhumed before the cremation can take place. After the cremation, the ashes can be placed in an urn or undergo sea burial.

FAQ

What to consider before exhuming a grave?

Before proceeding with grave exhumation, there are several factors to consider:

The emotional and religious aspects of grave exhumation

Exhuming a grave can be an emotionally challenging process for the family members of the deceased. It is important to consider the emotional impact and involve family members in the decision-making process. Understanding the family’s religious beliefs and practices is also crucial in determining the appropriate course of action.

Involving family members in the decision-making process

Engaging family members in the decision-making process can help ensure that their wishes and preferences are considered. It is important to have open and respectful communication with all involved parties to reach a consensus on the exhumation process and new resting place for the remains.

What is the role of the National Environment Agency (NEA)

The National Environment Agency (NEA) They are responsible for overseeing the exhumation process and ensuring that it is carried out in compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.

The NEA also issues the necessary permits for grave exhumation. These permits are important to ensure that the exhumation is conducted in a legally valid manner.

What happens to the remains after exhumation?

After the exhumation process is completed, the remains are handled with utmost care and respect. In many cases, the remains are cremated to create a more convenient and practical resting place.

Marble urns are often used to hold the cremated remains. These urns provide a lasting memorial for the deceased and can be personalized to reflect their unique personality and life.