I think there is a raised level of expectation that these materials will look absolutely seamless, like they are a solid piece, and that is really not going to be achieved with a material that has a veined pattern. I think a lot of those perfect vein matches and book matches seen on the internet are Photoshopped. Remember also that the material is changing direction at these corners, it's not really going to be undetectable.

I'm glad they are replacing, I would not want the same measuring/installation crew since both seem to have gone astray. I have wool broadloom installed on my lower level and although I know there are seams, it's not easy to find them. My rug has a cut/loop pattern, so maybe easier to hide a seam. But still, what you wound up with was terrible. Make sure to watch the person who measures, and see what is planned for seams. Then watch the installers as well. Seam peaking Seam peaking occurs when the seam is set, and then stretching occurs as the installation process is completed. When the carpet is stretched, it is pulled where the edges of the tape are attached to the carpet, and the two pieces lift to create a peak. Seam peaking can be minimized, but only if a professional understands how to install a carpet correctly. This is often one of the easiest ways to tell a professional job from one that wasn’t. I've had carpet in our lower level for 25 years, and never had any odors or mold. We replaced the old carpet 5+ years ago because it was worn, not moldy. The room is only partly below grade in the back, and we have central heat and air. I also run a dehumidifier in the summer.

They could be better, but they're not horrible.

Thank you for the feedback and confirmation! Joseph, when you say fix, what type of fixes would be acceptable? Assuming the large seam is level, is it as simple as getting a better color match on the adhesive or could they do better at getting a thinner, cleaner seam line? For the chips/damage - I think I read that they should be able to fill that in with marble and epoxy or is there another way besides replacing the entire section? I’ve been reading through all the discussions on here and it seems like the solutions can vary greatly. I’m trying to learn enough to not be taken advantage of by the builder and crew, but I also know some imperfections should be expected/aren’t worth the risk to correct.