The value of recorded building plans passed by larger municipalities (at current prices) during January to July 2009 decreased by 28,1% (-R14 046,8 million) compared with January to July 2008. The largest decrease was reported for residential buildings (-45,6% or -R11 495,8 million), followed by additions and alterations (-11,4% or -R1 512,4 million) and non-residential buildings (-9,0% or   -R1 038,6 million).

The preliminary estimates indicate that the value of buildings reported as completed to larger municipalities (at current prices) during the first seven months of 2009 increased by 0,9% (R256,3 million) compared with the first seven months 2008, whereas the increase for the first six months of 2009 was 6,4% (R1 512,1 million). Increases during the first seven months of 2009 were reported for additions and alterations (26,8% or R1 553,0 million) and non-residential buildings (10,3% or R688,5 million). Residential buildings recorded a decrease of 12,1% (-R1 985,1 million) during the above-mentioned period.