Like a lot of 1970s houses, mine has a wooden panel under the front window instead of brick. Unfortunately it is getting a bit rotten and I would like to replace it, probably with a uPVC panel of some sort but possibly wood.
In terms of building control, is this a complete thermal element (i.e. building control would be needed), or is it just part of the entire thermal element which comprises that side of the building, or is it a window despite containing no glass?
If I take it off I intend to upgrade the insulation anyway, might as well (any suggestions for the best type? It appears to be a sort of cavity wall but the inside panel is wood as well), but do I need to pay the Council an extra hundred quid for doing precisely nothing in this case?
Neil