Removing "dead" pads should be considered on high layer counts.
For example 12 layers with 1 oz copper on all layers means that the
drill bit will go thru 12 oz of copper. Maintaining good hole wall
quality for a 10 mil hole means that this board would definitely have
to be drilled one high. Not to mention that the maximum hit count for
the 10 mil drill bits would most likely need to be reduced. This same
board with "dead" pads removed could most likely be drilled two
high and no change to the maximum hit count per drill bit. Both
these actions affect the cost of the board.

A robust plating process is required when practicing "dead" pad
removal because the pads do help anchor the plating down the hole
wall. Most reputable PCB fabricators won't have a need for "dead"
pads.

This is my two cents.

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