Frequently Asked Questions

If your loved one’s passing was expected, please first reach out to their attending physician. If the loss is unexpected, call emergency services right away. If your loved one passes away in a hospital or care facility, contact us immediately so one of our caring licensed professionals can guide you through the next steps.  

When a loss occurs, simply call us to speak with one of our compassionate licensed staff members. We will respectfully transfer your loved one into our care, storing them in our secure, licensed refrigerated facility. Next, we’ll work with you—whether in person or via email/fax—to complete the necessary documentation. Once everything is in order, we coordinate with the appropriate government offices and proceed with the arrangements, transferring your loved one to the selected crematorium or cemetery. For cremation, please note that it typically takes up to five business days from the time of first contact for the cremated remains to be ready for pickup.  

During cremation, your loved one’s body is treated with the utmost respect. The container is placed in a cremation chamber where, over approximately three hours, the process reduces the body to fine bone fragments—known as cremated remains. Any metal present is carefully removed, and a secure labeling system is maintained throughout to ensure accurate identification. Every step is conducted with dignity and care.  

We understand how important it is to receive your loved one’s remains with complete assurance. Our process begins with a secure identification procedure at the place of passing—witnessed by a hospital staff member, nursing home representative, or family member. An identification band is applied and all paperwork is meticulously confirmed. At the crematorium, a stainless steel identification disc is assigned and remains with your loved one throughout the entire process. Once complete, this disc is returned along with the cremated remains, ensuring you can trust every detail of the process.  

No, Cremation is simply a method of preparing human remains for whatever type of service you’d eventually prefer.

Family members are welcome to be present at the beginning of the cremation process if they wish. However, please note that we do not offer a full on-site witnessing service throughout the entire procedure. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about this option.  

Cremation offers a variety of meaningful options for memorializing your loved one. The cremated remains—often affectionately called “ashes”—can be interred in a family plot, placed in a cemetery niche, scattered in a place of significance, kept at home, shared among family members, or even transformed into keepsake jewelry. We’re here to help guide you through these choices so that they reflect your loved one’s unique spirit.  

Yes, it is legal to scatter cremated remains, although guidelines vary by location. Scattering is permitted on Crown land and in many municipal parks or cemeteries with the proper permissions. In national parks, while water scattering is not allowed, you may “cast them to the wind” with discretion. When scattering on private property, please obtain permission from the landowner. We recommend handling this choice with care and respect for the surroundings.  

For safety reasons, pacemakers and similar medical devices must be removed before the cremation process begins. These items, particularly the batteries, can react to high temperatures. Our team ensures that all necessary devices are safely removed and handled according to strict protocols.  

Absolutely. Many families choose to organize their own memorial services, and we’re here to support you by providing all the necessary services and products for the care and handling of your loved one’s remains. We work closely with you to ensure every detail is managed with compassion and respect.  

Our affordability stems from our streamlined operations and smaller facilities, which help reduce overhead costs. These savings are passed directly on to you, all while maintaining the same high licensing and regulatory standards as any other reputable provider. Our focus is on making quality care accessible during a challenging time.  

We are a third-generation family owned and operated business dedicated to serving Toronto and its surrounding communities with our caring team of professionals for decades. At Affordable Burials & Cremations, we treat your family like one of our own—ensuring every interaction is handled with the utmost care, respect, and compassion.  

If you are planning a religious service, hosting a public visitation, or prefer to have your loved one embalmed, you may require the services of a traditional funeral home. With over 60 years of experience in the industry, we are happy to provide recommendations and connect you with trusted providers as needed.