The value of recorded building plans passed by larger municipalities (at current prices) during January to August 2008 decreased by 3,6% (-R1 997,0 million) compared with January to August 2007. Decreases were reported for residential buildings (-11,4% or      -R3 467,8 million) and additions and alterations (-0,8% or -R114,4 million). These decreases were partially counteracted by an increase reported for non-residential buildings (15,1% or R1 585,2 million).

The preliminary estimates indicate that the value of buildings reported as completed to larger municipalities (at current prices) during the above-mentioned period increased by 5,4% (R1 610,2 million). Increases were reported for non-residential buildings (24,9% or R1 429,8 million) and additions and alterations (22,4% or R1 158,2 million). A decrease of 5,1% (-R977,8 million) was reported for residential buildings during this period.