How long before a human corpse needs to be either embalmed or cremated?

Answer 1

Generally fairly soon after death; decomposition starts fast (and as embalming is to preserve the body, it only makes sense to perform it on a body that isn't already rotten). Due to muscles relaxing, a person's face doesn't look much like the person after 24 hours, which is why we have morticians. Within about 3 days the body will begin to bloat if left unattended, so I'd guess before then.

Cremation can happen at any point after the person has died and before the body totally decomposes.

Mind, a body can decompose in a month or two on land (depending on the ambient temperature) and in just a few weeks in water (even without fish helping it along).

Answer 2

Most states have a law that bodies must be "disposed" of, usually the limit is 10-14 days, depending on the state. In other words, within 10 days of death the body must be embalmed and buried or cremated. Bodies must either be embalmed or kept under refridgeration after 24 hours. But they must be in some way disposed of fairly soon after death.

Answer 3

In the very dry environment of a desert or the very cold (and sometimes dry) environment of high mountains or at the Earth's poles, a body will become dessicated quickly and last for centuries without it being invaded by morticians or cremated.
In a thousand years, the bodies of climbers on Mount Everest will probably be studied by scientists seeking to find out about people of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Answer 4

Unfortunately, it is dictated by law. The most it can go is 3 days, depending upon where you live. But I agree with Terry.

Answer 5

No limit, just keep the corpse very cold.

Answer 6

Well you have to wait until after their dead...