The representative survey conducted in August shows the "Construction Industry Confidence Index" was lowest in the capital and surrounding Pest County, at 3.3, and highest in Tolna County, at 4.

The index also varied according to professions, with electricians rated 4, plumbers and gasfitters 3.8 and painters 3.7, while general contractors were rated 2.9.

Mapei Kft managing director Béla Markovich said the poor assessment of general contractors could be because they are often blamed for the mistakes of subcontractors.

The survey also showed that 34% of Hungarians have lost money because they hired non-professionals to do construction work.