The value of building plans approved in South Africa declined 13.1% year-on-year to ZAR 8,021.9 million in May 2026, reversing a 16.9% increase in the previous month. The decline was broad-based across all categories, with the highest decline in non-residential buildings, plunging 10.5% after a 43.5% gain. Residential building approvals also decreased 13.4%, following an 18.0% rise. Meanwhile, additions and alterations also fell, contracting further to 14.2% from 2.2%.