The Antique Rug with Moth Damage and a “Full Restoration” Work Order
A client drops off an antique 10x14 hand-knotted rug and signs a work order authorizing “full restoration.” During pre-inspection you find live moth larvae casings under the fringe, a 12-inch section of cotton foundation at one end that crumbles when probed, several old repaired slits, and fringe that breaks when gently tugged. The rug has a strong musty odor. The client says it was appraised at $18,000 and expects your cleaning to “fix the edges” and “get rid of the smell.” Your shop does washing and minor fringe work but not foundation rebuilding or pest fumigation. The client leaves for a trip and wants the rug back in 10 days. She has already paid a 50% deposit.
1. What do you document and what do you tell the client before any work begins?
Read the worked answer
Document before touching the rug. I would photograph the moth casings, the crumbly foundation, the old slits, the breaking fringe, and the musty odor area; probe gently and record the extent of dry rot. I would explain that the work order phrase “full restoration” does not match the shop’s scope: cleaning can remove soil and surface contamination, but it cannot rebuild a rotted foundation, stop active moth feeding permanently, or guarantee odor removal. I would also explain that wet cleaning can cause further loss where the foundation is already crumbling. Ask her to revise the authorization to “cleaning and minor fringe stabilization only” or to take the rug to a restoration specialist.
2. What is the correct scope and sequencing for cleaning, pest treatment, and stabilization?
Read the worked answer
Sequence: (1) isolate and treat for moths-freezing or professional fumigation-before or after cleaning depending on the specialist’s advice; (2) stabilize weak areas with a support screen or wrap for transport; (3) clean with low-moisture methods around fragile sections, or wash only if the foundation can be supported; (4) dry flat with airflow; (5) refer foundation rebuilding and fringe replacement. “Getting rid of the smell” may require source removal; musty odor can persist in the foundation. Do not promise the odor will be gone. Moth casings under the fringe indicate active or recent infestation, so the rug should not go back into the same environment without client education.
3. How do you handle the deposit, the written authorization, and liability?
Read the worked answer
Work order and liability: because she has paid 50%, I would prepare a written scope change and refund or hold the balance until she approves the revised scope. The document should list pre-existing damage, cleaning limitations, moth treatment responsibility, odor disclaimer, and the referral for restoration. I would not accept the rug under “full restoration” language. If she leaves for her trip, I would send photos and the revised authorization by email and get written approval before work. At pickup, inspect together and note any new loss. This protects both parties and sets realistic expectations.