Right after it happens
Can I leave the house after someone dies there?
Short answer
Yes, unless police have asked you to stay. If there is an active investigation, follow law enforcement instructions. Otherwise you can leave — the coroner or funeral home will coordinate access.
What this usually means
Yes, unless police have asked you to stay. If there is an active investigation, follow law enforcement instructions. Otherwise you can leave — the coroner or funeral home will coordinate access.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.