Get at least three estimates. Ask for a written estimate with all associated costs, scope of work, and a timeline.
Check references.
Ask for professional certifications.
Make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured.
Check out the Arizona Registrar of Contractors’ (ROC) website - http://www.azroc.gov/ to see if they are a state-licensed contractor. You also can find out if the Arizona ROC has received complaints about a specific contractor.
Certified Arborist - www.isa-arbor.com/home.aspx
Certified arborists achieve a high level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through training and field work.
Irrigation Association - www.irrigation.org/
Irrigation Association professionals have technical skills to design, install, manage and maintain all types of irrigation systems.
Smartscape - www.smartscape.org/
Smartscape graduates have 20 hours of specialized professional landscape training that emphasizes sustainability and stewardship of natural resources in the maintenance of beautiful urban environments.
Desert Landscape School - https://learn.dbg.org/mainstore.asp?cid=1267
This certification is sponsored by the Desert Botanical Garden. It is awarded to people who have completed a series of workshops and have passed examinations covering the workshop material.
Green Plumbers – www.greenplumbersusa.com
Green Plumbers receive extensive training and promote the use of energy efficiency and water-saving technologies.