About this calculator
A first budget for building a house, flat or extension in South Africa: floor area times the average cost per m² of buildings completed this year, from Statistics South Africa.
How it’s calculated
Statistics South Africa publishes the floor area and value of private buildings completed each month, as reported by larger municipalities (Selected building statistics of the private sector, P5041.1). Dividing the value by the area gives an average cost per m² for each type of building: houses under 80 m², houses of 80 m² or more, flats and townhouses, and additions and alterations. The current rates are shown next to each type in the calculator, and are updated from each new Stats SA release.
Cost = floor area × rate. The value is the builder’s or owner’s estimate on the approved plans, and land is not included.
Worked example
With these inputs:
- Floor area to build
- 120 m²
- Type of building
- House of 80 m² or more (R8,851 per m²)
- Your own rate per m² (optional)
- R0
the result is:
- Rough building cost
- R1,062,120.00
- Floor area
- 120 m²
- Rate used
- Stats SA average, house of 80 m² or more
- Average for house under 80 m²
- R891,120.00
- Average for house of 80 m² or more
- R1,062,120.00
Tips from the trade
- Treat the result as a rough first budget. Quality of finishes, a sloping site, poor soil or a long way to the nearest supplier can push the real cost well above the average.
- Add the plot, plan drawing, council plan fees, NHBRC enrolment and connection fees separately.
- Once you have plans, price the job properly from a material takeoff and at least three builders’ quotes.
Common questions
How much does it cost to build a house per m² in South Africa?
Stats SA publishes the average value per m² of buildings completed, by type; the calculator shows the latest rate for each type, excluding land. Your own finishes and site can make a real job cost much more or less.
How do I work out the cost of a 120 m² house?
Multiply the floor area by the rate per m²: 120 m² × the rate shown for houses of 80 m² or more. Add the land, plans and fees separately.
Results are estimates for planning and pricing. Check quantities against your drawings, the manufacturer’s data and SANS 10400 (the National Building Regulations) and your local municipality before ordering.