# Father and son sentenced for carrying out illegal gas work

**URL:** <https://www.health-and-safety.uk/t/father-and-son-sentenced-for-carrying-out-illegal-gas-work/140>\
**Category:** HSE Prosecutions\
**Created:** [23 July 2026 14:11 UTC](https://www.health-and-safety.uk/t/father-and-son-sentenced-for-carrying-out-illegal-gas-work/140 "2026-07-23T14:11:01Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![olliekirksmith](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/o/8491ac/32.png) [@olliekirksmith](https://www.health-and-safety.uk/u/olliekirksmith)\
**Post date:** [23 July 2026 14:11 UTC](https://www.health-and-safety.uk/t/father-and-son-sentenced-for-carrying-out-illegal-gas-work/140/1 "2026-07-23T14:11:01Z")

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Summary  
Wayne Culliss, 55, and his son Kazys, 21, have been sentenced following illegal gas work at a rental property in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent. In January 2024, Wayne Culliss subcontracted a boiler replacement to his then 18-year-old son, despite knowing Kazys was not Gas Safe registered or qualified. A subsequent inspection by a British Gas engineer revealed a gas leak caused by the faulty installation, which had placed the tenants—including a young baby—at significant risk. Following a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation, Kazys Culliss was handed a 12-month community order with 140 hours of unpaid work, while Wayne Culliss was fined £3,000 plus costs.

Analysis  
This case highlights the HSE’s rigorous approach to enforcing the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. The prosecution is notable for holding both the individual performing the work and the individual who facilitated the illegal subcontracting accountable. Wayne Culliss, being a landlord himself, was deemed to have acted recklessly by bypassing safety protocols, suggesting a prioritisation of convenience or cost over tenant safety.

The severity of the sentencing, particularly the significant fine for the father and the community service for the son, reflects the potential for catastrophic consequences—such as fire or explosion—stemming from incompetent gas work. By publicising this case, the HSE reinforces a dual message: consumers must verify the Gas Safe credentials of any engineer they employ, and those in positions of responsibility cannot delegate hazardous tasks to unqualified individuals without facing criminal prosecution.

Source Article: Father and son sentenced for carrying out illegal gas work