Press Release: Homebuilding Numbers Remain Steady

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
Alicia Naleid, Communications Manager
(608) 242-5151 ext. 13

Homebuilding Numbers Remain Steady
3,133 New Home Permits Issued in Second Quarter  

July 22, 2020 – The latest single-housing permit numbers show that homebuilding has remained steady through the second quarter of 2020.

The data, compiled by information required to be submitted by municipalities to the Department of Safety and Professional Services, shows 3,133 permits were issued across the state in the second quarter of 2020 compared to 3,633 in the second quarter of 2019.  

“Homebuilding permits are down just 16 percent in Q2 of this year compared to Q2 of last year,” said Wisconsin Builders Association (WBA) Executive Director Brad Boycks. “Thankfully, construction was exempt through the Safer at Home Orders. We strongly believe our exemption kept homebuilding alive, providing much-needed housing and jobs for people across Wisconsin.”  

Year-to-date numbers are even more encouraging, with a decrease in building permits by only 3.8 percent. So far in 2020, 5,074 permits have been issued compared to 5,276 from January through June of 2019.    

“The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in many instances of supply delays and delays of both new builds and remodels across the state by homeowners, so the fact we are down just slightly compared to last year is great news,” said WBA President Jeff Dorner. “We are thrilled at how strong homebuilding has been through this last quarter and are hopeful to see it continue through quarter three.”  

About the Wisconsin Builders Association
The Wisconsin Builders Association is a professional trade association comprised of 21 local associations dedicated to helping members build communities around the state. We advocate the interests of 4,000 home building industry members to keep housing affordable and accessible for Wisconsin families, Protecting the American Dream for over 70 years.    

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Housing Permit Data