Let’s face it, sometimes a home improvement project takes a turn. You might end up with materials that don’t match or a gadget that isn’t quite right. Thankfully, Lowe’s return policy is really helpful.
They let you return most items within a generous timeframe. You can get a full refund, store credit, or even exchange the item.
Understanding how to return items to Lowe’s can make the process smoother. Let’s dive into the details to navigate it effectively.
In this article:
What Is Lowes Return Policy?
Lowe’s allows you to return most new, unused merchandise within 90 days of your original purchase if you have proof of purchase.
This gives you plenty of time to make sure your purchase fits your project needs. You can get a full refund, store credit, or exchange an item if you decide it’s not right for you.
It’s a good idea to keep your receipt, but if you misplace it, Lowe’s might still be able to find your purchase record.
If you made your purchase with a Lowe’s Commercial Account, Lowe’s Business Advantage, Lowe’s Advantage Card, or Lowe’s Business Rewards, you’re in luck! You get an extended return period of a full year for most items.
For major appliances like refrigerators and washing machines, you need to make any returns within 48 hours of delivery or pickup.
This short window emphasizes the need for careful planning and accurate measurement before buying these large items.
Other specific items have a 30-day return window. This includes outdoor power equipment, like lawnmowers and trimmers, as well as televisions, paint, and water heaters. Keep this in mind because 30 days can pass quickly!
Lowe’s also offers a one-year return policy for perennial plants, shrubs, and trees. This is great news for your landscaping projects as it gives you peace of mind for a whole year.
Plus, if you use your Lowe’s Advantage credit card, this one-year return window applies to most of your purchases, although there are a few exceptions.
What Can I Return at Lowe’s? Eligible Items
You can return many items you buy at Lowe’s.
These include lumber and building materials, tools and equipment, kitchen and bath fixtures, appliances, paint and decorating supplies, and lawn and garden products.
To be eligible for a return, items must be in their original packaging and good condition.
What Items are Not Eligible for Returns?
Some items you buy can’t be returned. This includes special orders, products that have already been installed, and perishable items like plants and flowers.
Gift cards also can’t be returned. If an item has been damaged or altered in any way, it’s not eligible for a return either.
What are the Key Elements of Lowe’s Return Policy?
Proof of Purchase
Having your receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation ready makes returns easier and faster.
Product Condition
The item should be in its original, unopened condition with all manuals, accessories, and packaging intact. Lowe’s may deny returns if the product’s condition varies from this.
Return Timeframe
You can usually return items to Lowe’s within 90 days of purchase. However, some products may have different time limits, so always check your product’s details.
Exceptions
Remember, some items can’t be returned or have special return rules. This includes opened or used power equipment and custom-made items. For any questions, ask a Lowe’s associate.
To qualify for a return, items must meet the following conditions: | |
Condition | Description |
Original packaging | Items must be in their original packaging, including all accessories and instructions. |
Unopened and unused | Items must be unopened and unused, with no signs of wear or damage. |
In good condition | Items must be in good condition, with no scratches, dents, or other damage. |
With receipt | A valid receipt or proof of purchase is required for all returns. |
How to Return with or Without a Receipt at Lowes?
Lowe’s makes returning items easy, whether you have a receipt or not. If you have your original receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation, starting a return is simple.
Just visit your local Lowe’s or reach out to their customer service. They will take care of your return and refund your original payment method.
Don’t worry if you don’t have a receipt. Lowe’s might still accept your return.
They’ll try to find your purchase using your account info, credit card details, or other transaction data.
If they find it, you might get a refund as a store credit or a merchandise card.
Are There Exceptions to Lowe’s 90-Day Return Policy?
At Lowe’s, most items can be returned, but there are a few exceptions. You can’t return delivery or shipping charges. This also applies to installation and labor charges.
Gift cards are another thing you can’t return or exchange. This includes Lowe’s gift cards, Visa gift cards, and Mastercard gift cards.
The same goes for in-store credits, merchandise cards, or refund cards.
If you’ve bought any masks or facial coverings from Lowe’s, you won’t be able to return those either.
Also, items like flammable liquids, gases, or hazardous materials such as lithium batteries must be returned in person due to safety concerns.
What Items Have a 30-Day Return Policy?
Lowe’s enforces a strict 30-day return policy for certain items, requiring them to be in perfect condition to be eligible for a refund or exchange.
Seasonal products, such as Halloween decorations or Christmas ornaments, need to be returned by the specific holiday.
Electronics with damage, like TVs with cracks or dents, are not accepted for returns.
The 30-day return window also applies to major appliances including freezers, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, cooktops, wall ovens, dryers, washers, hoods, and washer pedestals. Liquid paint must be unopened and unused to qualify for a return.
Outdoor power equipment such as pressure washers and lawnmowers are included, except for Black + Decker and Craftsman corded or cordless power equipment, which have a 90-day return policy. Plumbing items like water heaters must also be returned within 30 days.
Additionally, highway trailers must be returned to the store with all original paperwork, including the title, if applicable.
Does Lowe’s Offer Extended Warranties?
Lowe’s has a 90-day return policy for most items. But what if something goes wrong after that? Some products have extended warranties that cover defects.
If your item has a warranty and it malfunctions, take it to a Lowe’s store. You might get it repaired for free or even at home.
What is Lowe’s Appliance Return Policy?
Returning appliances is a bit tricky. For big items like fridges, washers, dryers, and stoves, you have just 48 hours after they arrive to send them back.
It’s super important to check your appliance as soon as it gets to you, especially if it’s a scratch and dent item.
Here’s a handy tip: If you don’t open or install your appliance, you might get 30 days to decide if you want to keep it.
But, if you open the box, the clock starts ticking, and you have only 48 hours to return it.
This same 48-hour rule also covers golf carts and utility vehicles if you bought them for personal use with your Lowe’s account.
What Is Lowe’s Return Policy for Plants?
Lowe’s stands by the quality of its plants. They give you a whole year, that’s 365 days, to return trees, shrubs, and perennial plants, even if they’ve died.
This shows how confident Lowe’s is about their plant quality and how much they care about customer satisfaction.
Just make sure to keep your original receipt if you need to return trees, shrubs, or perennials. All other plants from Lowe’s can be returned within 90 days.
What Is Lowe’s Return Policy for Paint?
At Lowe’s, the policy for returning paint is a bit different. You have just 30 days to bring back unopened, liquid paint if you want a full refund.
Don’t forget to bring your original receipt when you return it.
What Items Are Excluded from Lowe’s Return Policy?
Some items can’t be returned to Lowe’s. These include labor and installation fees, delivery and shipping costs—unless it was Lowe’s mistake—and any type of in-store credits or cards like refund or merchandise cards.
You also can’t return any gift cards. This rule covers Lowe’s gift cards, as well as third-party, Visa, and MasterCard gift cards.
Additionally, safety masks and facial coverings cannot be returned or exchanged.
Special Orders and Restocking Fees
If you return or cancel a special order configured product more than 72 hours after purchase, you’ll face a 20% restocking fee.
This fee may also include tax, depending on your state. If something has been installed, this restocking fee could still apply unless your installation contract states otherwise.
Lowe’s Return Policy Exclusions
Lowe’s strives for customer satisfaction, but some exclusions exist. Lowe’s Outlet Items, for example, have a very limited 48-hour return window for mechanical or electrical defects only.
Special order items, since they are custom-ordered, typically cannot be returned.
Opened software or perishable goods are generally non-returnable due to licensing restrictions or health concerns.
What Should I Do If There Are Problems with My Lowe’s Order?
If your order arrives with shipping damage, missing items, or delivery errors, you should get in touch with Lowe’s customer service within three days of receiving your order.
If you find any defective items, call the Lowe’s Service Advantage hotline. They can help you understand your warranty coverage options.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Lowe’s Advantage Credit Card for Returns?
Lowe’s values its loyal customers by offering extended return periods. If you use a Lowe’s Advantage Credit Card, you get a whole year—365 days—to return most items.
This is a lot longer than the usual 90 days. Remember, this extended period doesn’t apply to appliances, paint, and other items that typically have shorter return windows.
How Does Lowe’s Handle Refunds?
Refunds are sent back using the original payment method. If you can’t use that method anymore, you’ll get a Lowe’s gift card instead.
Usually, refunds take about 5 to 7 business days to process once we receive the returned item.
See Related: Does Lowes Take Afterpay?
What is the Step-by-Step Process for Returning Items to Lowe’s?
To return an item to Lowe’s, follow these simple steps:
- Make sure the item meets the return policy conditions.
- Bring the original packaging, accessories, and your receipt.
- Go to the Lowe’s store where you bought the item or start a return online.
- Hand over the receipt and item to the customer service representative.
- Wait for the refund to be processed.
- Receive your refund in the original form of payment.
By understanding Lowe’s return policy and following these steps, you can enjoy a hassle-free return experience and shop with confidence.
How to Return Online Orders at Lowe’s?
To return an online order, contact Lowe’s customer service. Inform them that you would like to return an item.
They will provide a pre-paid return shipping label and help you with the return process.
How to Return In-Store Orders at Lowe’s?
To return an in-store purchase, take the item and your receipt to the Lowe’s customer service desk.
They will help you with the return process and provide a refund or exchange.
Conclusion
Lowe’s return policy gives you a good amount of time to return most new and unused items. It’s important to know the main rules and any exceptions to avoid problems.
If you have any questions, you can always look at Lowe’s return policy on their website or talk to their customer service.
FAQs
What if I don’t have a receipt for my return?
You might still be able to return items at Lowe’s even if you don’t have the receipt. They can sometimes verify your purchase in other ways. If they can’t find a record of your purchase, they might give you store credit instead of returning your money.
Can I return an opened item?
Lowe’s usually accepts returns only if the items are unopened and unused. There might be some exceptions, so it’s a good idea to talk to customer service about your specific situation.
How do I initiate a return online?
If you bought something from Lowes.com, you can start your return through your order history on their website. You can also go to a Lowe’s store near you to return the item in person.