Terms of Service

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your access to and use of The RUG Index platform, including therugindex.com and all associated services (collectively, the "Platform"). By using the Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

1. The Platform

The RUG Index provides rug valuation tools, certified appraisal services, a marketplace for buying and selling hand-knotted rugs, and related professional services. The Platform is operated by The RUG Index, based in Chicago, Illinois.

2. Accounts and Registration

To access certain features, you must create an account. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials and for all activity that occurs under your account. You must provide accurate information and keep it updated.

3. Marketplace Listings

• Listing fee: $25 non-refundable, charged at time of submission.
• Commission: 7% of the final sale price, charged upon confirmed sale.
• Listings are subject to review and approval by The RUG Index. We reserve the right to reject any listing at our sole discretion.
• Sellers must own or have legal authority to sell listed items.
• Descriptions must be accurate. Misrepresentation may result in account suspension and legal liability.
• We do not guarantee the sale of any listed item or the achievement of any specific price.

4. Appraisal Services

• Appraisal fees are charged at time of booking and are non-refundable once the inspection has been scheduled.
• Standard: $75 · Comprehensive: $125 · Estate/Legal: $250
• All appraisals are conducted by RICA-certified appraisers using the RUG Index grading standard.
• Appraisal reports are opinions of value and do not constitute a guarantee of sale price or insurance coverage.
• For legal or tax purposes, users should consult qualified legal and tax professionals.

5. Consignment

Consignment arrangements are governed by a separate consignment agreement signed at the time of intake. The standard success fee is 20–25% of the sale price depending on value. No upfront fee is charged for consignment items.

6. Payments

All payments are processed securely via Stripe. The RUG Index does not store credit card information. By making a payment, you agree to Stripe's terms of service. Refunds are issued at the sole discretion of The RUG Index.

7. Prohibited Uses

• Submitting false, misleading, or fraudulent listings
• Using the Platform for money laundering or any illegal purpose
• Attempting to circumvent fees by arranging sales outside the Platform
• Harassing, threatening, or abusing other users
• Scraping or bulk downloading Platform data without written permission

8. Intellectual Property

The RUG Index grading standard, methodology, RICA certification framework, and all Platform content are the intellectual property of The RUG Index. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without written permission.

9. Disclaimers

The Platform is provided "as is." We make no warranties regarding the accuracy of valuations, the quality of listed items, or the fitness of any rug for any particular purpose. Valuations are estimates based on available information and should not be relied upon as the sole basis for financial or legal decisions.

10. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, The RUG Index shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of the Platform. Our total liability shall not exceed the fees you paid to us in the twelve months preceding the claim.

11. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Illinois. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Cook County, Illinois.

12. Changes to These Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. We will notify registered users of material changes by email. Continued use of the Platform after changes constitutes acceptance of the new Terms.

13. Contact

Questions about these Terms? Contact us at info@therugindex.com or visit our contact page.