If your funeral establishment or crematory receives a notice from the Department, it means a compliance inspection will take place within the next six months. These inspections are always unannounced, so the best way to approach them is to be prepared in advance.
To help, we’ve pulled together some of the most common areas inspectors have been focusing on recently. Think of this as a “checklist of reminders” rather than a complete list — and a chance to catch small issues before they become big ones.
What Inspectors Are Looking At
Premises & Cleanliness
Inspectors want to see facilities that are safe, clean, and professional. Common findings include:
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Improper disposal of waste or residual cremated remains
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General cleanliness concerns
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Building or equipment condition issues
Refrigeration
Proper care of decedents is a priority. Areas inspectors often flag:
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Decedents not maintained at or below 38°F
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Condition of storage equipment
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Flooring inside refrigeration units
Licenses
This one is simple but often overlooked:
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Establishment and crematory licenses not posted where families or inspectors can clearly see them
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Missing or expired employee licenses
Records & Documentation
Paperwork matters! Inspectors have raised concerns about:
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Incomplete cremation logs or files
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Out-of-date or missing price lists
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Noncompliant Statements of Funeral Goods and Services Selected
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Arrangement files missing required details
Helpful Resources
If you want a refresher or to double-check your paperwork, these resources are available through the Department’s website:
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FTC Funeral Rule (16 CFR 453.2(b)(2), (3), and (4))
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The “Purple Book” – Complying With the Funeral Rule
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Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) Title 32, Chapter 12 (consolidated version)
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Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) Title 4, Chapter 12
Final Thoughts
Inspections can feel stressful, but they don’t have to be. Most findings come down to small oversights that are easy to correct with regular check-ins on cleanliness, recordkeeping, refrigeration, and posted licenses.
By staying proactive, you’ll not only be inspection-ready but also show families the professionalism and care they expect when they walk through your doors.
If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Department at BLPOFuneral@azdhs.gov — or connect with us at AFCCA for support, resources, and community.
We’re all in this together, and we’re here to help you succeed.
Your Feedback Shapes Our Advocacy
Have you run into contradicting rules or challenges during inspections? Help AFCCA track these issues so we can advocate effectively on your behalf. Use our new Member Feedback Form to let us know what you’re seeing in the field — responses can be submitted anonymously.