I'm in the process of getting quotes for a small master bathroom remodel (house built in 1929) and need to have the pipes between the two bathrooms replaced as well, so being done as one project.

I just met with the second contractor and waiting for his bid, but I did like him and found him on Yelp with very good reviews, there are currently no reviews on Angie's List just a basic listing. I contacted two other contractors from Angie's List and have received no response. Another I found on Houzz said there's not enough remodeling work for them to do so they're out. Another contractor I contacted was interested, but said he couldn't meet with me during the times of the week I was available (weeknights and weekends - I work during the week and gone 12-hours a day).

Here are my questions:

- The State of Illinois does NOT require contractors to be licensed, the exception are roofers.
Online source: "Individual cities and municipalities regulate the construction industry in the State of Illinois. Before a general contractor can begin work on residential or commercial projects, they must first apply for licensure or permits based on the limitations and regulations set forth by their city. These regulations protect the public and ensure that the work and services offered by general contractors is of the highest quality and meets safety standards. Check with your city or municipality’s regulations before securing construction work in the State of Illinois."

- This contractor I met with does have licenses for a few towns around me, but not in my specific town (I'm working on finding out if he needs one for my town). He said some towns you just pay money to get the license, other towns have to complete an exam. He has been doing work like this around my area for years, even much bigger projects than mine and in some very wealthy towns.

- He confirmed he is bonded and insured.

- If I go with him and decide to get a permit too, he said he can still do the work, but he can't use his regular (non-licensed) guys, but has to subcontract with licensed tradesman.

- This contractor said this would be considered a "small" project for them and take approx 2-3 weeks depending on what they find once they demo since it's an old house. The (licensed) contractor who did my kitchen remodel said the project would take approx 12 weeks. That's a big time frame swing. I'm still sorting out more contractors for bids and I don't know yet if my kitchen contractor is going to be available or want the project.

So based on this information, I don't know how critical a licensed contractor is if they do good work and there's varying regulations on who gets licensed.

Obviously I want someone reputable who does quality work and won't rip me off. Based on how easy it can be to get licensed in some towns, I question it.

Sorry for long-winded question, but I'm in a quandary on this...advice, suggestions?