Auction services were among the worst-graded companies of 2011, according to Angie's List, a provider of consumer reviews on local contractors and service companies. And for the seventh consecutive year, home warranty companies topped the categories list.

Repeat offenders on the year's most complained-about list included Internet service providers, property management companies, mobile and landline phone service providers, and wedding service categories, such as bridal shops and wedding planners.

Most of the complaints for auction services were for estate auctions, but there were some complaints for Internet auction sites as well. Most complaints centered on money issues, which were related to poor communication, and there were complaints from people who felt they had been taken advantage of in a time of grief as they settled an estate.

Angie's List founder Angie Hicks said, "Often, estate sales are emotional for the affected family because they're putting an important part of their life up for sale. Because you're vulnerable going into the transaction, it's especially important to take your time before you hire an auction company. You want someone you feel good about, someone who'll respect you, listen to you and clearly explain what's about to happen."

Hicks said consumers shouldn't hesitate to ask for a minimum guarantee of prices for items that have marketable value. Get written details of the auctioneer's commission and all costs you'll incur for the service.

"We've heard many complaints where the auctioneer kept 50 to 75 percent of the proceeds," Hicks said. "Knowing what you're up against going in will make this difficult time easier."

For Internet auctions, complaints included relisting items that don't sell at a lower amount than approved and without consent of the consignee, and not setting minimum bids for items.

Banks and credit unions were new to Angie's List most complained-about list. Claims of unauthorized fees, unsatisfactory communication from banks on their policies, and poor customer service were the prevailing theme in the poorly graded reports. Also new to the most complained-about list are auction services, boating sales and service, mattress retailers and travel agencies.

Angie's List 2011 Most Complained-About Companies

• Home warranty companies
• Internet service providers
• Banks/Credit unions
• Property management companies
• Auction services
• Boating sales and service
• Mattress sales
• Mobile and landline phone providers
• Wedding professionals - bridal and tuxedo shops, planners
• Travel agencies

Rankings were based on AngiesList.com analysis of member reports submitted during the first three quarters of 2011. Angie's List members use an A-F scale to grade service companies on overall experience, price, quality, responsiveness, punctuality, and professionalism. Proprietary technology and human review are used to ensure the grades are reliable and fair. Anonymous comments and self-reporting are prohibited, and companies are encouraged to monitor and respond to reports free-of-charge.