FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below you can see some of our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). These are general inquiries that people often have asked about what we offer.

If we don’t cover what you need to know, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Contact Us

01935 410101

What Payment Types Do You Accept?

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, BASCs payments and cash.

What Areas Do You Cover?

Appleby & Childs offers a comprehensive memorial masonry service across Somerset, Dorset, Avon, and Wiltshire. Our commitment to personal service and high standards of workmanship ensures that families throughout these regions receive exceptional memorial solutions.

Do You Accept Part Payments?

At Appleby & Childs we can offer payments by arranged instalments for memorials however, please note that memorials cannot be fixed until payment is completed.

Do You Offer Maintenance of Memorials?

Yes, we provide a full suite of professional aftercare services. From our central workshop, we handle everything from delicate hand-cleaning of soft stones to the re-gilding of gold lettering and structural re-levelling. Our goal is to ensure your family’s tribute remains as dignified as the day it was first installed.

How soon after a burial can a headstone be installed?

For a full earth burial, we generally recommend waiting 6 to 12 months before fixing a headstone. This allows the ground to settle naturally, ensuring the memorial remains level and secure for the long term. However, for cremation memorials or plots with pre-installed concrete plinths, installation can often take place much sooner. We can advise you on the specific requirements for your chosen location.

Do I need permission to put up a memorial?

ServicesYes. Every churchyard and cemetery requires a formal application (often called a ‘Faculty’ or ‘Permit’) before any stone can be placed. The rules vary significantly between a local authority cemetery and a Church of England churchyard. At Appleby & Childs, we handle all the paperwork for you, liaising directly with the Diocese or local council to ensure your design meets their specific regulations. Read More on this on our Services Page.

Why are some materials or designs not allowed in churchyards?

Churchyards in the Diocese of Bath & Wells, Exeter, and Salisbury have strict rules designed to preserve the historical and natural character of the area. This often means that highly polished stones, certain granite colours, or ‘secular’ designs (like hobby-related carvings) may not be permitted. We specialise in ‘soft stones’ like Portland and Nabresina, as well as honed finishes, which are frequently required for these traditional settings.

What is BRAMM and why does it matter?

BRAMM stands for the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons. Being a BRAMM-registered firm means our masons are independently audited to ensure they work to the highest safety standards (BS 8415). This guarantees that your memorial is installed using approved ground-anchor systems, preventing it from leaning or becoming a safety hazard in the future.

Can I add a new inscription to an existing family stone?

Yes. We frequently add additional inscriptions to existing memorials. We take great care to match the original font style, size, and finish—whether that is hand-chiselled, sandblasted, or leaded. We can also provide a professional cleaning service at the same time to ensure the entire memorial looks uniform and well-maintained. Read More on this on our Repairs & Maintenance.

Is my memorial covered by insurance?

While we provide a ten-year structural guarantee on our workmanship, this does not cover external factors such as accidental damage by mowers, vandalism, or extreme weather.

For total peace of mind, we recommend a specialist ‘All-Risks’ insurance policy, such as StoneGuard. These are affordable plans designed specifically to protect your investment from unforeseen circumstances, including mower damage or falling branches. We can provide further details and help you arrange this cover during your appointment.

A Personal Service From Appleby & Childs

Still have questions? If we haven’t covered your specific inquiry here, our team is available to provide the guidance you need. Whether you are ready to discuss a bespoke design or are simply seeking further inspiration, please get in touch with our Yeovil office for expert advice. Alternatively, you can request a copy of our latest brochure to explore our full collection at your own pace.

Monday – Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm

FAQ

FAQ

FAQ