The value of recorded building plans passed by larger municipalities (at current prices) during January to September 2008 decreased by 3,2% (-R1 990,5 million) compared with January to September 2007. This was due to a decrease of 12,0% (-R4 076,3 million) reported for residential buildings. However, the decrease in residential buildings was partially counteracted by increases reported for non-residential buildings (13,7% or R1 650,8 million) and additions and alterations (2,7% or R435,0 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 8,2% (R2 785,4 million). Increases were reported for non-residential buildings (25,5% or R1 703,7 million) and additions and alterations (24,1% or R1 412,6 million). A decrease of 1,5% (-R331,0 million) was reported for residential buildings during this period.