When you buy a cemetery plot you have the exclusive right to be buried in that plot of land—also known as a right of sepulture (burial or interment).

Laws and definitions of terms vary from state to state but your rights are generally governed by the contract or agreement you sign when you buy the plot; by state laws (statutes) regarding cemeteries and plots; by corporate bylaws for the cemetery corporation that owns and manages the cemetery; by any restrictions in the real property deed (quitclaim deed) used to convey the plot to you; and if you are married when you purchase the plot, by state laws governing marital or community property rights.

Because the right of sepulture is effectively a sale of the land where the plot is located a quitclaim deed or other real property deed may be used to convey or transfer ownership of a plot from the cemetery corporation or a plot owner to a new plot owner.

These laws and agreements may also limit your right to transfer by will ownership of any part of your plot and the right to be buried in the plot (if it is a double plot, for example).

In West Virginia, when you purchase a cemetery plot, you are granted the exclusive right to be buried in that plot, known as the right of sepulture. This right is typically outlined in the contract or agreement signed at the time of purchase. West Virginia state statutes concerning cemeteries and burial plots, along with the bylaws of the cemetery corporation, govern these rights. Additionally, if a real property deed, such as a quitclaim deed, is used to convey the plot, it may contain specific restrictions or conditions. For married individuals, West Virginia's marital property laws may also influence rights associated with the cemetery plot. The ability to transfer ownership of the plot or the right to be buried there through a will may be subject to limitations imposed by these various laws and agreements. It's important to review all relevant documents and understand the specific terms and conditions that apply to the cemetery plot in question.