Better Business Bureau reports top, worst 10

GRAND RAPIDS - The Better Business Bureau of Western Michigan reports that regional BBB were up 20 percent in 2005 as consumers and donors relied on BBB information more. Over 214,000 reliability reports were issued with 96 percent coming from the BBB's Web site, www.westernmichigan.bbb.org.

Complaints about regional companies within the 37 county service area increased only 5 percent in 2005 with almost $2 million worth of complaints being resolved by the BBB.

The following are the Top 10 inquiries and complaints in 2005:

1. Multi-Level Marketing

Locally based Quixtar, Amway, and other direct selling organizations using multi-level sales people.

2. Mortgage Companies

Very important to check out and compare reliability reports. Inquiries were 8,414, up 33 percent.

3. New Construction

Slower year for new construction and for remodeling companies. Very competitive market, many inquiries to find the right builders.

4. New Car Dealers

Always a high contact industry; inquiring minds should research their dealer.

5. Used Car Dealers

Everyone searches first for a good dealer reputation.

6. Auto Repair and Service

Always in the top ten as more people fix up cars with 6,065 inquiries, up 133 percent.

7. Auto Body Repair

3,642 is a record for this very competitive industry.

8. Apartments

First time ever that this industry was in top ten; inquiring minds want to know where there is a good apartment to rent.

9. Roofing Companies

Inquiries down 27 percent as fewer problems in finding the right roofer.

10. Heating and Air Conditioning Contractors

Always in the top ten; over 400 separate reports, make sure they have a good track record and read our lips and tips and look carefully; 3,030 inquiries.

COMPLAINTS processed up 5 percent overall.

1. Manufacturers/ Products

132 complaints spread amongst many companies, up from 113 last year. Make sure you understand manufacturer's warranties.

2. Mail Order and Catalog Sales

We have a few located in 37 county; not a problem industry, proportionately a small amount of complaints with 111 complaints, down 50 percent.

3. Internet Service Providers

100 complaints last year; pays to check this out before signing up; watch out offers with low initial pricing and less than clear regular terms.

4. Mobile/Cellular phones

Once again number with 81 complaints last year for area reseller; up 33 percent.

5. General Contractors

Always in the top ten; 65 complaints, down 45 percent.

6.Employment Services

61 complaints split among a few companies, read contract carefully.

7. Landscape/Lawn care

57 complaints same as last year.

8. Banks

54 complaints, new to the top 10.

9. New Auto Dealers

38 complaints for the industry, down 18 percent.

10. Health & Diet Aids

New to the top 10: exercise more and don't believe unproven claims.