The Property Council says a deadline set by Christchurch City Council for earthquake damage repairs and demolitions is too demanding and combative.
Property owners have been warned to repair or demolish heavily damaged buildings by 31 January next year or the council will do it for them and send them the bill.
The council says the ultimatum will only add to the stress of dealing with processes involving the council, engineers, assessors, the Earthquake Commission, banks and insurance companies.
Canterbury spokesperson Graeme McDonald says many will be alarmed by the deadline at a time when builders and suppliers traditionally take holidays.
He says that effectively leaves people to sort themselves out by December.
No one from the council was available for comment.
