Why Using Unauthorised Headstone 'Cleaners' Can Be a Costly Mistake

In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in “one-man band” headstone cleaners offering quick, cheap cleans in cemeteries — often without permission, insurance, or understanding of local regulations.

At first glance, it might look like a good deal. But in reality, unauthorised memorial work in cemeteries can lead to serious problems — from damaged memorials to council fines and even permanent bans from the site.

At GraveClean, we do things the right way. Every project we carry out, whether for a family, parish, or local authority, is fully approved, documented, insured, and compliant with cemetery regulations.

The Rules Many People Don’t Realise Exist

Every cemetery or churchyard has strict policies on who can carry out work on memorials.

Most require:

• A permit or permission form for any cleaning, restoration, or re-lettering,

• Proof of public liability insurance and risk assessment,

• Evidence that the operative is a trained, recognised contractor,

• Agreement to follow BRAMM, NAMM, or council-specific guidelines for safety.

These rules are there to protect families, staff, and the memorials themselves.

Unauthorised cleaners often skip this step completely — turning up unannounced and working without notifying the cemetery office.

The Reality: No Permission, No Protection

We hear countless reports of so-called “cleaners” being asked to leave or banned after being caught performing unpermitted work. In some cases, the cemetery or diocese can issue warnings to families who unknowingly hired them, leaving them frustrated and embarrassed.

Even worse, if damage occurs — chipped stone, faded lettering, dislodged memorials — there is no insurance cover. The family is left to pay for repairs, and the contractor simply disappears.

The truth is simple: if someone can turn up today and clean a headstone tomorrow without asking for paperwork, that’s the first red flag.

Why Authorisation Matters

Cemetery managers must ensure all work on site meets health, safety, and conservation standards. That means:

• The area must be risk-assessed before work begins,

• Only suitable materials and tools can be used,

• Workers must have up-to-date insurance and training,

• All activity must be recorded in case of inspection or damage claims.

GraveClean meets all these standards as part of every job.

Our Compliance Promise

Every GraveClean booking begins with a full compliance review led by our Compliance Manager, Lynne.

Lynne liaises directly with local councils, cemetery offices, and diocesan authorities to:

• Secure permits and authorisations before work begins,

• Provide method statements, risk assessments, and insurance certificates,

• Ensure all technicians follow NAMM and SIAM safety guidelines,

• Maintain good standing on approved contractor lists nationwide.

Her role is to make sure our work always aligns with each cemetery’s specific rules — from churchyards to crematoria to municipal sites.

💬 “We work in partnership with councils and clergy,” says Lynne. “Our goal isn’t just to complete a job, but to maintain trust and ensure families and authorities are completely confident in how their sites are cared for.”

Why Families and Councils Trust GraveClean

✅ Fully authorised and insured for every cemetery we work in

✅ Permit paperwork handled — no stress for the customer

✅ Strong relationships with councils, clergy, and heritage officers

✅ Transparent process — risk assessments and photos for every job

✅ Compliance Manager dedicated to regulations and safety

When you choose GraveClean, you’re choosing a team that values respect, safety, and professionalism just as much as results.

The Risk Isn’t Worth It

Hiring someone who skips paperwork might save a few pounds — but it can also result in damaged headstones, denied cemetery access, and unnecessary stress for the family.

The safest, most respectful way to restore a memorial is to use a company that’s authorised, accredited, and accountable.

That’s what GraveClean stands for.