The value of recorded building plans passed by larger municipalities (at current prices) during January to October 2008 decreased by 4,2% (-R2 963,8 million) compared with January to October 2007. This was due to a decrease of 13,6% (-R5 184,5 million) reported for residential buildings. However, the decrease in residential buildings was partially counteracted by increases reported for non-residential buildings (14,7% or R1 986,0 million) and additions and alterations (1,3% or R234,7 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 8,3% (R3 208,1 million). Increases were reported for additions and alterations (23,8% or R1 593,1 million), non-residential buildings (18,7% or R1 475,5 million) and residential buildings (0,6% or R139,5 million).