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Our Refund & Return Policy

Livestock Refund & Return Policy Aquariums, Equipment, & Supplies Refund & Return Policy

Livestock Refund & Return Policy


Applies To: Fish, Corals, & Invertebrates sold by Tidalwave Aquatics

At Tidalwave Aquatics, we take great care in the health and handling of all livestock we sell. Due to the sensitive nature of aquatic animals and the many variables outside our control once livestock leaves our facility, all livestock sales are final.


No Returns or Exchanges


  • We do not accept returns on live fish, corals, or invertebrates once they have left our care.
  • If livestock shipment comes in dead or damaged, reference our "Livestock DOA Guarantee," section.


Livestock DOA Guarantee (for delivered or shipped orders ONLY)


If you purchased livestock for delivery or shipping & something arrives deceased, please contact us within 2 hours of delivery with the following:

  • Clear photos or videos of the unopened bag or delivery container
  • A timestamped photo of the deceased livestock

If the claim meets our criteria, we may offer:

  • Store credit for the value of the affected item
  • Replacement, if inventory allows

We do not cover any shipping costs for credited livestock. Shipment delays due to weather or mechanical failure which result in loss may not be covered under our guarantee. We are not responsible for incorrect addresses provided by the buyer. Livestock DOA arrival claims submitted after the 2-hour window cannot be honored - Tidalwave Aquatics reserves the right to decline coverage. In the event that an order is requested to be cancelled, we can offer you a 100% refund in the form of credit to be used with Tidalwave Aquatics (expires in 12 months from the date issued) or a refund to the original form of payment with a 20% restocking fee.


What You Must Do


  • Take clear photos or videos of the deceased frag within 2 hours of delivery.
  • Submit a DOA Request Form as soon as possible.


What Will Void the Guarantee


  • Do NOT remove coral from its original plug - removal voids the guarantee.
  • Do NOT discard or return the specimen without written authorization from us.
  • Do NOT refuse delivery, even if the box is damaged or leaking. Accept it and contact us with documentation.
  • The DOA guarantee applies only to shipped livestock - not local pickups.


Habitat Suitability Disclaimer


We reserve the right to void the guarantee if we reasonably determine that the tank conditions are unsuitable for the livestock received. This is to ensure the long-term health and ethical treatment of marine animals.

It is the customer’s responsibility to:

  • Ensure proper tank parameters and acclimation.
  • Provide a stable environment for livestock.
  • Avoid improper mixing with incompatible tankmates.


DOA Request Form


Aquariums, Equipment, & Supplies Refund & Return Policy


At Tidalwave Aquatics, we are happy to accept most new products in their original packaging within 30 days of the purchase date for a refund - subject to shipping & restocking fees.


  • Returns must be requested & approved (using our Return Request Form).
  • Product must be returned in the original packaging & the item must be unused & unopened.
  • Shipping & delivery fees are non-refundable.


Additional notes for all aquariums, equipment, & supplies shipments & returns


  • Products purchased as new but have been opened or used are not eligible for return or exchange.
  • Products purchased past 30 days from the original purchase date are not eligible for return or exchange.
  • Please open all packages & inspect all items for damage immediately upon arrival - if an item has a manufacturing defect & does not function as intended, please reach out to us immediately.
  • Any item purchased as a Special Order Item, Or Drop Ship Item can not be canceled after order is placed. 
  • All Aquarium deliveries must be inspected at the time of arrival. Any damage must be reported within 24 hours of receipt. We cannot accept claims for shipping damage reported outside of this window.


We do not accept for returns or exchange the following products


  • Aquariums, Foods, Sand, Salt, Rocks, & Batteries.
  • Any liquids with expiration dates outside of the 30 day purchase date.
  • Any items that show signs of exposure to water or use.
  • Damaged, altered packaging or missing packing material including warranty cards, manuals & accessories.
  • Any item purchased as a Special Order Item, Drop Ship Item, Open Box Items, Pre-Owned or Used Items. 
  • Any item sold under a clearance, blowout, or liquidation are final & not eligible for return.


To initiate a return, please complete a Return Request Form. We will provide return authorization and further instructions.


Return Request Form