Kinetic, Holy Crap, you'd have done better yourself. Most other people would have thought the spacers were acceptable.
Also I hope that guy doesn't get a spark you know where! OOch!
I'm glad you came out relatively unscathed. Good luck.
PS. Allways avoid the lowest bidder. They are usually low balling to get the work. Unless you can have everything decided up front and in writing. I'd personally get 3 quotes to repair his work. Pick the Middle and shell out the dough. Then take his ass to court to pay for it. Check your local small claims court for restrictions. This guy has no business doing business. "period"