Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2012	Nov. 30, 2014		Nov. 30, 2013		Nov. 30, 2012
Changes in the Company's warranty liability
Balance at beginning of year	$ 67,693	$ 48,704		$ 47,822		$ 67,693
Warranties issued		18,479	[1]	14,261	[1]	8,416	[1]
Payments		(39,458)		(45,338)		(19,701)
Adjustments	(11,200)	17,471	[2]	31,959	[2]	(8,586)	[2]
Balance at end of year		45,196		48,704		47,822
Self Insurance Reserve, Balance at beginning of year	94,823	92,214		93,349		94,823
Expenses Associated with Self Insurance		13,491	[3]	8,239	[3]	7,894	[3]
Payments, Net of Recoveries for Self Insurance		(19,131)	[4]	(9,374)	[4]	(10,168)	[4]
Adjustments in Self Insurance Reserve		0		0		800
Self Insurance Reserve, Balance at end of year		$ 86,574		$ 92,214		$ 93,349

[1] (a)The year-over-year increase in the expense associated with warranties issued in 2014 and 2013 reflected higher housing revenues in each of those years. Additionally, in 2013, we increased the warranty accrual rate per home based on our historical claims experience.

[2] (b)Adjustments in 2014 were primarily comprised of reclassifications of estimated minimum probable recoveries to receivables and a reclassification to establish a separate accrual for a water intrusion-related inquiry from the Office of the Attorney General of the State of Florida (the “Attorney General’s Office”). These items had no impact on our consolidated statements of operations. Adjustments in 2013 were comprised of charges associated with water intrusion-related issues in central and southwest Florida. In 2012, favorable warranty adjustments were partly offset by similar water intrusion-related charges.

[3] a)These expenses are included in selling, general and administrative expenses and are largely offset by contributions from subcontractors participating in the wrap-up policy.

[4] (b)Recoveries are reflected in the period we receive funds from subcontractors and/or their insurers.