Do you need a contractor license in Illinois?

When do you need a license?

Illinois licenses roofing contractors and plumbers statewide. There is no statewide general, electrical or HVAC contractor license; check with your city or county. (source: 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1460: Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act rules (opens in a new tab), source: Illinois Department of Public Health: Plumbing (opens in a new tab))

• Anyone who plans, inspects, installs, alters, extends, repairs or maintains plumbing systems in Illinois must be licensed by IDPH. (source: Illinois Department of Public Health: Plumbing (opens in a new tab))
• Roofing licenses are not required for sheet metal, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration or mason contractors, or carpenters doing chimney repairs. (source: 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1460: Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act rules (opens in a new tab))
• Home repair or remodeling over $1,000 needs a written contract or work order before work starts. (source: 815 ILCS 513/15: Home Repair and Remodeling Act, written contract (opens in a new tab))

Penalties (roofing)

• Unlicensed roofing: $200 per violation, $400 for a repeat within 12 months. (source: 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1460: Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act rules (opens in a new tab))
• Aiding unlicensed practice: $100 ($200 repeat). Substandard work: $100. (source: 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1460: Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act rules (opens in a new tab))