Values carpets (5)
I believe the answer is:
rates
This clue might be a double definition.
'values' is the first definition.
(rating is a kind of valuing)
'carpets' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with contact as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I can't see?
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for rates that I've seen before include "Assesses value of - property taxation system" , "Former means of local revenue" , "(Old) property taxes" , "Former local taxation system" , "Local tax on property" .)