If you are like me and have had many issues with dealing with customers not paying, complaining about you when you were not in the wrong, etc. you need to check this out. There is a new site called Business Beware. It is for the Businesses and Contractors to complain about the customers and jobs they had problems with. The customers have the Better Business Bureau to complain about us, but we dont have anything, til now.. You can look up customers in your area and see what has been said about them, but most of all it is your outlet for your business. Check this thing out at www.businessbeware.biz

That is why you need a good contract and stick to it. I have heard many a contractor tail about this. Proper screening your client, using a good contract, and placing a lien on the property prevents the need to use sites like that. Besides they charge money to gain this info. The BBB does not. If a site like this was free, perhaps it would be worth the while joining.
If your going to spend money on that type of site, your better off joining a local trade organization. If they have had issues with someone, you can bet someone else within this type of group had as well. And would love to tell you all about it.