How to Choose a Bathroom Remodeler in Chicago

To choose a bathroom remodeler in Chicago, check four things before you compare prices: a current City of Chicago general contractor license, current insurance, licensed plumbing and electrical contractors, and a detailed written contract. Then compare the same written scope from at least three companies, call their references and be wary of pressure, cash-only terms and big up-front payments.

Updated October 21, 2026. Sources are City of Chicago and State of Illinois pages, linked below. This is general information, not legal advice, and it applies to any remodeler you consider, including ones we refer.

Our role, so you know what to expect

We are a free referral service, not a remodeler. We share your project details with up to three independent, licensed Chicago remodelers who serve your area. They are separate companies. We do not do the work, we do not sign your contract, and we do not guarantee any remodeler’s work, schedule or price. Check every company yourself, whether it came from us or from a neighbor. Read our referral disclosure and how it works.

A checklist of what to confirm

The step-by-step lookup is in how to verify a Chicago contractor license. Illinois does not license general contractors statewide, according to the Illinois Attorney General, so for a Chicago home the City license is the one that counts.

Insurance: ask for proof

The City’s consumer guidance says contractors should always be insured and that taking someone’s word for it is risky. It suggests getting the name of the insurance carrier and calling for a statement of coverage. The City lookup also shows the insurance expiration date, which should run past your project’s end date. Condo associations usually want a certificate of their own, so ask early.

Get comparable written scopes

The City of Chicago advises getting bids from at least three contractors and meeting them face to face. The Illinois Attorney General suggests comparing against at least two others. Give each company the same information, and ask each for an itemized written scope and price that lists:

• What is demolished, repaired and replaced, and what is included for waterproofing and the permit.
• Specific products or allowances for tile, fixtures, vanity and glass, so prices compare fairly.
• Who is responsible for the permit, inspections and cleanup.
• How hidden damage found after demolition will be priced and approved. See hidden bathroom remodel costs.
• Start and completion dates. See the bathroom remodel timeline.

The lowest number is not always the best value, so compare what each one includes. For planning ranges, see the Chicago bathroom remodel cost guide.

Questions to ask each remodeler

• What is your license number, and who will hold the permit?
• Which licensed plumbing and electrical contractors will do that work, and are they your employees or subcontractors?
• Can you send a current certificate of insurance?
• Can I contact three recent customers whose projects were similar?
• Is the home pre-1978, and are you EPA lead-safe certified?
• What warranty do you offer on work and products, in writing?
• Who will be on site, and who is my point of contact?

What a good contract includes

Illinois’ consumer pamphlet lists these basic terms: the contractor’s full name, address and telephone number; a description of the work; starting and estimated completion dates; the total cost; the schedule and method of payment, including down payment and final payment; and the grounds for termination by either party. Chicago’s consumer guidance adds that the contract should list any subcontractors, that changes should be in writing and signed by both parties, and that you should never sign a contract with blank spaces.

If you sign at home, you have three business days to cancel the contract, and the contractor cannot take that right away by starting work.

Payments and liens

• The City advises spreading payments over the job, tied to progress, with only a small deposit.
• Do not sign a certificate of completion or make the final payment until the work is done to your satisfaction, as the Illinois pamphlet advises.
• Under the Illinois Mechanics Lien Act, the contractor must give you a sworn statement naming the people and companies furnishing labor and materials, and the amounts due, before you pay. Ask for it, and ask for lien waivers from subcontractors. A lawyer can explain your rights.

Red flags

• No license number, or a number that does not match the company name.
• Door-to-door pitches, offers of free inspections, or a phone number as the only contact.
• Demands for cash, or for a check payable to a person instead of the company. Illinois’ pamphlet lists both as warning signs.
• An offer to skip the permit for plumbing or electrical work to lower the price.
• No written contract, or a refusal to put promises and brand names in writing.
• A price good “only today,” or an offer to drive you to the bank or to arrange a loan.
• Refusing to give references.

If something goes wrong

The City of Chicago asks consumers to report home repair problems through 311, and the Illinois Attorney General handles consumer fraud complaints. Take photos before and after the work, and keep every signed document.

When you are ready, get matched with up to three independent, licensed remodelers, then use this checklist on each. See also bathroom remodeling in Chicago.

Frequently asked questions

What license should a Chicago bathroom remodeler have?

A City of Chicago general contractor license for work that needs a building permit, plus licensed plumbing and electrical contractors. A home repair license covers work that needs no permit, and its holders may not pull permits.

Does Illinois license general contractors?

No. The Illinois Attorney General says general contractors are not licensed at the state level, but municipalities such as Chicago require their own license and permits.

How many quotes should I get?

The City of Chicago advises at least three contractors and meeting them face to face. Ask each for an itemized written scope and price so you can compare like with like.

What must be in the contract?

For work over $1,000 Illinois requires a written contract stating total cost, materials and the business name and address. The state pamphlet also lists dates, payment schedule and grounds for termination.

How much should I pay up front?

The City advises spreading payments over the job, tied to progress, with only a small deposit. Do not make the final payment until the work satisfies you.

Do you guarantee the remodelers you refer?

No. We are a free referral service, and the remodelers are independent companies. Verify each license, insurance certificate and contract yourself.

Where do I complain about a contractor?

In Chicago, use 311 for home repair problems. The Illinois Attorney General handles consumer fraud complaints.

Sources

• City of Chicago, Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, “Home Repair Tips For Consumers”: chicago.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.
• City of Chicago BACP, “Be Informed. Be Protected.” home repair consumer protection flyer (2023): chicago.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.
• City of Chicago, Trade License Information Center (general contractor and home repair licenses): chicago.gov; Home Repair license overview: chicago.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.
• City of Chicago, licensed general contractors lookup: webapps1.chicago.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.
• Illinois Attorney General, “Home Repair and Construction: How to Choose a Contractor” (rev. 07/26): illinoisattorneygeneral.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.
• Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act, 815 ILCS 513/15 (written contract) and 513/20 (consumer rights pamphlet): ilga.gov; ilga.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.
• Mechanics Lien Act, 770 ILCS 60/5 (contractor’s sworn statement): ilga.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.
• U.S. EPA, RRP firm certification: epa.gov. Accessed October 21, 2026.

Related

• Verify a License
• Permit Guide
• Condo Bathroom Guide
• Remodel Timeline
• Hidden Costs