Filling land - when is it necessary?
Filling land is popular here, often complete necessary on paddy land, but I also notice it commonly used to raise blocks above road level. Thais like land that is square and level, slight slopes are made flat prior to building. Soil is expensive now, as is labour for retaining walls, which can fail.
How necessary is filling if the block is at road level or a touch above? I see many things done out of habit when there are newer, cheaper, better alternatives and wonder if this is sometimes the case with filling land. Any thoughts?