The value of building plans approved in South Africa surged by 16.9% year-on-year to ZAR 8708 million in March 2026, following a 11% drop in the prior month. Increases were seen for residential buildings (27.3% vs 8.4% in February); additions & alterations (10.2% vs -6.1%) and non-residential buildings (1.2% vs -43.6%).