First a woman selling crochet work arrived at the home in Westgate Street, Hilborough, at around 11am today (Thurs) followed about 30 minutes later by a man offering to cut grass.
The resident refused both people, who then left, but the incident led trading standards officers to warn people off having work done or buying goods on the back of a doorstep approach by traders.
A statement said: "Often such traders don't provide full names, trading addresses or contact telephone numbers, resulting in it being virtually impossible to trace them if there are any problems with the work or goods - which is all too often the case.
"Such traders often ask for cash upfront, and don't offer the entitled seven-day cancellation rights also."
The woman who called at the Hilborough home was white, mid 40s, with an Irish accent, long dark curly hair and was wearing dark clothing with a long skirt and carrying a wicker basket.
The man was white, mid 30s, of medium build, with dark short hair and wearing a blue polo shirt and blue jeans.
Anyone experiencing problems with traders, or needing further advice, can call the national consumer helpline - Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.