The value of recorded building plans passed by larger municipalities (at current prices) during January to May 2009 decreased by 24,4% (-R8 525,4 million) compared with January to May 2008. In the first four months of 2009 the annual decrease was 30,4%. The largest decrease was reported for residential buildings (-44,0% or -R7 723,4 million), followed by additions and alterations (-4,7% or        -R423,9 million) and non-residential buildings (-4,5% or -R378,0 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% (R1 570,4 million). Increases during the first five months were reported for additions and alterations (32,2% or R1 272,4 million) and non-residential buildings (19,8% or R820,2 million). Residential buildings recorded a decrease of 4,7% (-R522,1 million) during the above-mentioned period.