SmallBizGenius Analysis

Lowes receives mixed customer feedback, with many reviewers reporting issues with delivery, installation, and customer service. While some customers praise specific employees and in-store experiences, the overall sentiment is negative, driven by frustrations with online orders and post-purchase support.

Category Breakdown

Scores based on analysis of 304 recent reviews

Delivery Issues

2.0/10

Numerous reviewers report significant problems with Lowes' delivery service, including delays, damaged items, and a lack of communication. Customers cite instances of appliances arriving dented, orders being sent to the wrong locations, and delivery dates being repeatedly pushed back.

42 reviews mention this

Customer Service

3.0/10

Many reviewers express frustration with Lowes' customer service, describing it as unhelpful, unresponsive, and difficult to navigate. Common complaints include long wait times on the phone, being transferred multiple times, and encountering employees who lack the knowledge or willingness to resolve issues.

38 reviews mention this

Installation Problems

2.5/10

Several reviewers report negative experiences with Lowes' installation services, citing delays, incompetent installers, and damage to their property. Customers describe issues such as incorrect installations, installers not showing up, and difficulties getting Lowes to address the problems.

25 reviews mention this

Online Ordering Issues

3.5/10

A significant number of reviewers report problems with Lowes' online ordering system, including website errors, incorrect product information, and difficulties with returns. Customers mention issues such as orders being canceled without explanation, the website not working properly, and being unable to return items purchased online in-store.

20 reviews mention this

In-Store Experience

8.0/10

Some reviewers praise the in-store experience at Lowes, highlighting the helpfulness and knowledge of specific employees. These customers appreciate the assistance they received in finding products, placing orders, and resolving issues.

15 reviews mention this

Appliance Purchases

4.0/10

Several reviewers specifically mention negative experiences related to purchasing appliances from Lowes, citing issues with delivery, installation, and product defects. Customers report receiving damaged appliances, having difficulty scheduling installation, and encountering problems with warranty claims.

12 reviews mention this

Military Discount Issues

3.0/10

A few reviewers express frustration with Lowes' military discount policy, citing limitations and inconsistencies in its application. Customers report being denied the discount due to rebates or other promotions, or encountering difficulties verifying their military status.

5 reviews mention this

Pros & Cons

What Customers Love

Helpful and attentive staff in some locations Mentioned 10x
"Went to the Lowe's at 3616 E Broad St. Couldn't have asked for a better shopping experience. I was rushed for time...and the staff went out of their way to help me find each item needed in an expeditious manner."
Competitive pricing on certain items Mentioned 5x
"I liked the price for a new hot water heater, i liked the delivery & installation service, They were right on time, did a good job installing my water heater!!"
Efficient order placement with specific employees Mentioned 3x
"We went to Lowes in Gulf Breeze and ordered a refrigerator, washer and dryer through Stephan and he was very informative, attentive and efficient with order placement."
Professional and friendly delivery personnel in some cases Mentioned 3x
"Delivered washing machine within time-frame promised. 1. Professional and friendly. 2. 5 Star install and haul away."

Common Complaints

Frequent delivery delays and issues Mentioned 28x
"Ordered microwave and dishwasher on 2 18 26 I still have not received yet. Scheduled for 3 3 26."
Poor customer service and unhelpful associates Mentioned 25x
"Lowe’s has the worst customer service in the universe. Their estimated delivery times are a complete joke- do not expect any delivery until at least 2 days after the projected date, likely longer."
Problems with installation services Mentioned 18x
"Working with Lowes for new windows for my whole house has been an ongoing nightmare. I ordered windows in Oct.2025 Yesterday April 8,2026 I finally got the last window installed."
Online ordering system is unreliable Mentioned 12x
"I spend over $40,000 a year at Lowes and they still have a website from 2020, it NEVER works, every purchase has to be made at the store. Not a single person at Lowes can even address this problem, WT..."
Difficulties with returns and exchanges Mentioned 8x
"I went to Lowe’s on peach orchard rd in Augusta ga. I brought 83 $ worth of sprinkler system they didn’t work so I try to return them not for the money. I just wanted to exchange because they are defected."

Common Questions About Lowes

Answers derived from customer review patterns

Is Lowes legit and trustworthy?

Based on the reviews, Lowes is a legitimate company, but its trustworthiness is questionable due to widespread complaints about delivery, installation, and customer service. Many customers report significant issues with online orders, including delays, damaged items, and a lack of communication. While some customers have positive experiences with in-store staff, the overall sentiment suggests that Lowes struggles with consistency and reliability, making it a potentially risky choice for small businesses that require dependable service.

Based on 45 reviews

Does Lowes have good customer service?

According to the reviews, Lowes' customer service is generally perceived as poor. Many customers report long wait times on the phone, being transferred multiple times, and encountering employees who are unhelpful or lack the knowledge to resolve their issues. Some reviewers describe the customer service as "the worst in the universe" and express frustration with the company's lack of responsiveness. While there are occasional reports of helpful employees, the overwhelming consensus is that Lowes' customer service is a significant weakness.

Based on 38 reviews

Is Lowes worth it for small business?

Whether Lowes is worth it for a small business depends on the specific needs and priorities of the business. If a business primarily needs basic building materials and is willing to risk potential issues with delivery and customer service, Lowes' competitive pricing and wide product selection may be appealing. However, businesses that require reliable delivery, installation services, and responsive customer support may want to consider alternative suppliers with a better track record. The inconsistencies in service quality and the high volume of negative reviews suggest that Lowes may not be the most dependable choice for small businesses that cannot afford disruptions or delays.

Based on 30 reviews

What is Lowes' return policy like?

The reviews provide limited information about Lowes' general return policy, but one review mentions a very restrictive 48-hour return policy on appliances, which is significantly shorter than the return windows offered by many other retailers. This suggests that Lowes' return policy may be less flexible than some customers expect, and it's important to carefully review the specific terms and conditions before making a purchase. Customers also report difficulties returning items purchased online in-store, which can be a major inconvenience.

Based on 10 reviews

Why are Lowes deliveries so unreliable?

Based on the reviews, the unreliability of Lowes' deliveries appears to stem from a combination of factors, including issues with third-party delivery companies, poor communication, and logistical challenges. Many customers report that Lowes outsources its delivery services to "no name" companies, which may lack the resources or training to provide reliable service. Additionally, customers frequently complain about a lack of communication regarding delivery schedules and delays, making it difficult to plan accordingly. System errors and website glitches also contribute to the problem, with some customers reporting that their orders are sent to the wrong locations or canceled without explanation.

Based on 20 reviews