The value of recorded building plans passed by larger municipalities (at current prices) during the first half of 2009 decreased by 24,5% (-R10 199,7 million) compared with the first half of 2008. The largest decrease was reported for residential buildings (-42,7% or -R8 952,2 million), followed by additions and alterations (-6,1% or -R672,2 million) and non-residential buildings (-6,0% or        -R575,3 million).

The preliminary estimates indicate that the value of buildings reported as completed to larger municipalities (at current prices) during the first half of 2009 increased by 5,9% (R1 379,1 million). Increases during the first six months were reported for additions and alterations (30,9% or R1 480,9 million) and non-residential buildings (23,7% or R1 204,6 million). Residential buildings recorded a decrease of 9,5% (-R1 306,4 million) during the above-mentioned period.