I live in Florida and I have a State Residential Building Contractor license, we have very strict licensing requirements for all trades including electricians, plumbers, heating and cooling must have state and even handymen must have county license. All states should have this requirement.

Who told you they didn't? And why did you pick someone who wasn't on the front end? This wasn't your first rodeo. Due diligence after all. They were cheap? Again? And now are costing you double to deal with the fallout? Again?

Nothing says that YOU cannot make any requirements that you want on your job site. Again.

California requires Stat licenses, and or certifications.

I think most states do require a license for both General Contractors and all of the primary trades (electrical, mechanical, gas piping, hvac, plumbing). NC has very strict licensing requirements. It seems that Illinois is lacking in such regulations. Time to start writing your state legislators and get the ball rolling. Go meet with local and state authorities and be the voice that helps consumers.

A lot of cities/towns and counties in Illinois have requirements. Cook county, for example has licensing requirements for electricians. Find a reputable one with licensed electricians (even if they aren't required to be licensed in your town/county). You will likely pay more, but if you don't find a licensed one, you will end up paying over and over again for repairs.

I would also check the Better Business Bureau....

Were this work done in Florida, you don't have to pay for it and the "contractor" cannot lien your home, however, you can sue him to make it right. His contract with you is no good; yours with him is.