When you improve your home, returns are likely to happen. You might end up with too much plywood or the wrong toolset. In these cases, you’ll want to get a refund or exchange.
However, not all stores make returns simple. Thankfully, Lowe’s is different. Here’s what you need to know about Lowe’s return policy for both online and in-store purchases.
We’ll also see how it stacks up against other home improvement retailers.
Understanding Lowe’s Return Policies
Lowe’s aims to keep its return policy straightforward. If you have your receipt, you can return most new and unused items within ninety days of buying them.
If you used a Lowe’s Commercial Account (LCA), Lowe’s Advantage Card (LAC), Lowe’s Business Advantage (LBA), or Lowe’s Business Rewards (LBR) to make your purchase, you have up to a year to return it.
The policy applies to most products, but keep in mind that store returns must be approved by a manager. They have the authority to decide on repairs or refunds.
Lost Receipts
What if you lost your receipt?
Don’t worry! You can still return items without a receipt. A store employee can often find your purchase details in the Lowe’s system using your credit card number, phone number, checking account number, or MyLowe’s card.
If you’re returning something without a receipt, make sure to bring a valid photo ID. Lowe’s will need to confirm your identity to verify the original purchase.
Remember that, just like with their regular return policy, all returns still need a manager’s approval. They can also restrict the number of items you can return without a receipt.
90-Day Return Policy Exceptions
Every return policy has some exceptions, and Lowe’s is no different. There are a few items that cannot be returned or exchanged. These include:
- Shipping or delivery fees
- Labor and installation costs
- Gift cards
- Store credits, refund cards, or merchandise cards
- Masks or facial covers
If you need to return items that have flammable liquids, gases, or any materials labeled as “hazardous”—such as lithium batteries—you must do so in person.
This rule applies even if you purchased the item online. Lowe’s does not allow the return of hazardous materials through the mail, even if the dangerous substance has been removed.
30-Day Return Policy
Most items at Lowe’s follow the 90-day return policy, but some products must be returned within thirty days in “like-new” state to qualify for an exchange or refund. This includes:
- Holiday items: Seasonal products, such as Halloween decorations or Christmas ornaments, need to be returned by the holiday date or earlier. For example, if you purchase Halloween decorations, you must return them by Halloween or before that date.
- Electronics and TV: If your electronics, such as TVs, have any damage like cracks or dents, they cannot be returned.
- Major Appliances: This category includes items like freezers, dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators, cooktops, dryers, washers, wall ovens, washer pedestals, and hoods.
- Liquid Paint: You can only return liquid paint if it hasn’t been used.
- Outdoor Power Tools: This includes lawnmowers and pressure washers. However, Black + Decker and Craftsman cordless and corded power tools are covered under the 90-day policy instead.
- Plumbing: This category covers larger items like water heaters.
- Highway Trailers: To return a trailer, you must do it in-store and provide all original documents, including the title if available.
Returning Items with a Warranty
Most items at Lowe’s follow a 30-day or 90-day return policy, but what happens if you buy something with a warranty?
If your product stops working after 90 days, check for a warranty. Some items come with extended warranties that cover defects from the manufacturer.
If you have a warranty, take the item to a Lowe’s store. You might be able to get it repaired for free or arrange for a repair at home.
Processing Online Returns
Returning items in-store is usually the fastest way to get your refund or exchange. However, you can also return items online through Lowe’s website.
This option isn’t available for every product, but some items can be returned using prepaid shipping.
Centralized Parcel Return Facility
To return an item online, you’ll need to use Lowe’s centralized parcel return facility. Here’s how to do it:
- First, pack the item in a strong box or envelope.
- If returning several items, only include the ones listed on the return slip.
- Don’t forget to add all the original packaging and accessories, like instruction manuals.
- Complete the return slip and place it inside the package with the items.
- Finally, attach the shipping label to the box and take it to your nearest post office or give it to your local carrier.