Show us the memorial
Send a photograph showing the whole memorial and the area around its base.
When a memorial has moved
Memorial Re-levelling / Re-fixing
If a memorial has shifted or looks unstable, we check the stone, base and ground before recommending a repair.
We check what has moved
We assess the stone, foundation, fixings and ground before recommending the work.
Review the proposed work
We explain the repair and quote before anything is arranged.
The repair
Checking the memorial and its base
A visible lean does not show whether the problem lies in the stone, its fixings or the ground beneath it. We check each part before deciding what the repair needs to involve.
Checking alignment
Checking the base
Before the repair
What we need to check first
Position and movement
How far the memorial has moved and whether the stone is stable.
Foundation and ground
The condition of the base and ground supporting the memorial.
Existing fixings
Whether fixings or mortar have failed and need to be replaced.
Site access
How the memorial can be reached and safely lifted if needed.
A stable result
More than making the stone look straight
Where needed, we remove failed fixings or deteriorated mortar and prepare the base. We then reset the memorial with suitable fixings and check its alignment and stability before leaving.
What standards guide memorial re-fixing?
Re-fixing involves checking the foundation and fixings as well as the stone. Dowels are the pins joining the stone to its base. Fixings that do not meet current requirements need replacing or upgrading before the memorial is reinstated.
BS 8415:2018 (opens in a new tab) sets structural requirements for new and reinstated memorials. The National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM) publishes a Code of Working Practice (PDF, opens in a new tab) that supports the standard. The burial ground’s own rules also apply.
RQMF-registered businesses and fixers (opens in a new tab) agree to follow both. We explain any work needed to the base or fixings before you agree to the repair.
How we decide on the repair
What happens after you get in touch
A photograph helps us understand your concern. We confirm the repair after inspecting the memorial and its base.
Send the details
Send a clear photograph of the memorial, its location and what concerns you.
We inspect the memorial
We check the stone, fixings, foundation and surrounding ground before confirming the work.
After the inspection
Depending on the review, one of these next steps applies:
If the base can be retained
The proposal focuses on re-fixing the memorial using the existing base.
If the base needs work
The proposal includes preparing a level base and replacing failed fixings where needed before resetting the memorial.
After the work, we check alignment and stability and update you on what was done.
Ask for a re-levelling quote
Questions before you enquire
Re-levelling FAQs
Can you tell from a photograph what repair is needed?
A photograph helps us understand the concern. We still need to assess the memorial, foundation and ground before confirming the work required.
Will the memorial need to be lifted?
That depends on the condition of the memorial and its foundation. If lifting is needed, the headstone is lifted carefully using appropriate equipment.
What happens if the old fixings have failed?
Failed fixings and deteriorated mortar are removed where needed. We then prepare the base and reset the memorial using suitable fixings.
How do you check the memorial afterwards?
We check its alignment and stability before leaving the site.
Will I receive an update after the work?
Yes. We explain what work was completed and update you on the memorial’s condition.
What should I send with my enquiry?
Start with a clear photograph of the whole memorial, its location and a brief description of what has moved or feels unstable.
See our team and recent work
Independent reviews
See what customers say about GraveClean
A simple next step
Ask us to assess the memorial
Send a photograph and the memorial's location, or speak to the team about what has moved. We can then advise on the next step and provide a quote for you to review.
