Steep slopes

These will need retaining walls to stop soil washing away, terracing is the most practical way of dealing with a slope so that you have some flat areas for a patio and any strutures (shed, greenhouse and so on). Grassed slopes may seem the perfect answer but are awkward to mow as they are often slippery.

Topsoil

If you already have good topsoil, ensure that it does not become buried beneath subsoil during levelling operations. Digger drivers need supervision on this!

Once all the levels are right, order topsoil if necessary and be there to accept delivery. Do not let the driver tip it until you have inspected it for unwanted clay, large amounts of weed and rubble. Once tipped you won't be able to persuade the driver to re-load it by hand. Reject poor loads and buy elsewhere.