Headstone Installation: What Families Need to Know

Who installs a headstone?

It depends on the cemetery. Some cemeteries allow an approved outside installer; others require their own grounds crew to pour foundations or set every memorial. At Remembrance Headstones, installation — where available — may be performed or coordinated through our partner Monument Service Group or another qualified provider, subject to cemetery rules. We do not promise an owned crew, a fixed installation price or availability in every ZIP code. Contact us to confirm what can be coordinated for your cemetery.

What has to happen before installation?

Installation is the last of several separate stages. Production begins only after:

• The required payment milestone is received.
• The cemetery has approved the memorial, where approval is required.
• The family has given final written design approval.
• Order information is complete and the contract is signed.

After production comes delivery, and only then installation. Production, delivery and installation dates are estimates unless confirmed in writing, and weather, cemetery schedules and permits can all shift them.

Why do cemeteries require permits and approvals?

Cemeteries manage uniform section layouts, lawn maintenance and safety. Most require a memorial application or setting permit showing the dimensions, material, color, inscription and plot location. Many also charge a setting or inspection fee. Ask the cemetery office for its requirements in writing; our cemetery rules checklist lists the questions to ask. In California, consumer questions about licensed cemeteries can be directed to the Cemetery and Funeral Bureau.

Does every headstone need a foundation?

Not always. Flat markers are often set level with the turf, sometimes on a concrete border or bed, while upright, slant, bench and ledger memorials usually need a concrete foundation sized to the base. The exact requirement — depth, width, reinforcement and who may pour it — comes from the cemetery. Foundation work is priced separately and is never assumed to be included in the catalog price.

How long after a burial can a headstone be installed?

There is no single rule. Many cemeteries ask families to wait for the ground to settle before a foundation is poured, and some sections have seasonal restrictions. Order timelines also vary by product: simple flat markers move faster than sculpted angel memorials or memorial complexes. Rush requests are reviewed but not guaranteed.

What does installation cost depend on?

Installation is quoted only after these details are confirmed in writing:

• Cemetery name, ZIP code and plot location.
• The product, its weight and dimensions.
• Site access for equipment and any hand-carry distance.
• Permit, setting and inspection fees charged by the cemetery.
• Foundation requirements and the installing provider.
• Price and schedule, agreed in writing.

This is why no honest provider can quote installation for every ZIP code in advance. Displayed product prices exclude installation, foundation work, permits and cemetery fees.

How does delivery work?

Complimentary delivery may apply to eligible made-to-order products within the 48 contiguous U.S. states when it is confirmed in the written terms; Alaska and Hawaii are quoted separately. When a memorial arrives, inspect the packaging and the stone. If there is visible transport damage, note it with the carrier, take photos and report it to us immediately. Our customer service page explains the claims process.

What happens on installation day?

A qualified installer confirms the plot location with the cemetery, checks the foundation, sets the base and positions the memorial so it is level and aligned with its section. Cemeteries often schedule the visit themselves, and some do not allow families on site during work. Afterwards, follow the product-specific written care instructions — gentle cleaning with water and a soft brush is the general rule the National Park Service recommends for grave markers.

How do we get an installation quote?

Share the cemetery name, ZIP code, plot details and the memorial you are considering through our quote form or call +1 888 248 6813. We will explain what the cemetery requires and send any installation pricing in writing, separate from the memorial itself.