An adjuster was presented with a water-damage claim involving what was described as an antique 10-by-13-foot Heriz Rug valued at $25,000. The water damage caused the colors to run, rendering the Persian rug a total loss, according to the insured's claim.

The owner provided the adjuster with the provenance of having inherited this early-20th-century rug from a family member. The owner also provided documentation of having spent several thousand dollars restoring the rug to what was described as “pristine” condition. 

Initial online research supported the $25,000 claim. Nonetheless, the adjuster had some reservations about whether or not the rug was a total loss and called in a contents-claims specialist to consult on the case.