Most webhosting companies now days have site forums. I would go to the forum section and talk to other customers to see how satisfied they are with the company. Someone will always be disgruntled with a company, but if a lot are that way I'd steer clear of them. Ask what type of site they run along with how large. If they don't have a public forum try their support staff with questions about the company. Like what kind of up time they have, what the response time is for support. Plus what is the extent of support. How large is their customer base and turnover rate.**

Most webhosting companies are really good until a problem arises and then you find out how wonderful they are. Sometimes the cheaper it is the less support you have. Still there are some wonderful ones out there.

Just remember some buyer guide sites get a kickback from new signups on advertising. So do a little research.