Jefferson Parish couple sues over $49K damage to Persian rug

NEW ORLEANS – A Jefferson Parish couple is accusing a New Orleans-based carpet cleaner of ruining a $49,000 rug.

Larry and Jan Merington filed suit against Needlepoint Rug Cleaning Inc. and its insurer in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court on Nov. 14. The Qum silk rug was purchased in February 2000 for $6,500 but but at its most recent appraisal in 2012, was valued at $49,000, the lawsuit claims. The rug’s increase in value is attributed to the restrictions placed on Iranian imports after the rug was purchased.

The Meringtons were told that any damage sustained to the rug during cleaning would be covered under the cleaner’s insurance policy. They claim that the rug was washed with a chlorine based solution, causing the dyes to run and fade. The company admitted fault but the damages were not covered under its insurance policy.

The defendant is accused of negligence and breach of contract.

The plaintiffs are seeking no less than $49,000 and the cost of the suit as compensation.

Larry and Jan Merington are represented by S. Ault Hootsell III of New Orleans-Based Phelps Dunbar.

The case has been assigned to Division N Judge Ethel S. Julien.

Case No. 2012-10651.