The value of recorded building plans passed by larger municipalities (at current prices) during 2008 decreased by 5,4% (-R4 368,1 million) compared with 2007. This was due to a decrease of 15,6% (-R6 880,8 million) reported for residential buildings. However, the decrease in residential buildings was partially counteracted by increases reported for non-residential buildings (15,0% or R2 351,0 million) and additions and alterations (0,7% or R161,7 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 10,0% (R4 659,8 million). Increases were reported for non-residential buildings (27,1% or R2 502,4 million and additions and alterations (26,7% or R2 148,8 million). Residential buildings reported as completed increased marginally by R8,5 million.