Supply and demand were balanced across all surveyed items
MLIT's survey conducted from August 1 to 5, 2026 covered 13 items in seven construction-material categories including ready-mixed concrete, steel and lumber. Nationwide supply-demand conditions were rated balanced for every surveyed item, while inventory conditions were rated normal. H-beam prices were assessed as slightly higher than in the previous month; all other surveyed materials were broadly flat. The monthly survey is designed to monitor changes in prices, supply-demand balance and inventories that can affect construction activity.
Stable material supply does not mean total construction costs are falling
Balanced material conditions indicate that there is no broad nationwide shortage in the surveyed categories, but total construction costs include much more than raw materials. Labor, transport, building equipment, design, site supervision and specialist subcontracting can materially affect final project budgets. Major condominium repairs and whole-building renovations can also involve scaffolding, waterproofing, plumbing, air-conditioning and elevators, many of which are not captured by a simple headline material-price indicator.
Overseas buyers should obtain renovation estimates before acquisition
Foreign investors acquiring older houses, apartment buildings or commercial properties in Japan should avoid assuming that a low purchase price automatically produces a low total investment cost. Roof waterproofing, exterior walls, pipes, hot-water equipment, fire-safety systems and seismic conditions can create substantial post-acquisition expenditure. Where possible, a yen-denominated contractor estimate should be obtained before purchase. August's survey suggests stable nationwide supply conditions, but actual project costs still vary significantly by region, building condition and construction schedule.