Merchant accounts for Double Glazing and Home Improvement companies
26 February 2019
Written by Libby James
Libby James is co-founder, director and an expert in all things merchant services. Libby is the go-to specialist for business with more complex requirements or businesses that are struggling to find a provider that will accept them. Libby is regularly cited in trade, national and international media.
Introduction
Double glazing and home improvement businesses often face challenges when securing merchant accounts due to high ticket values, extended delivery times and elevated refund or dispute ratios. This guide explains how merchant accounts work for these industries in the UK and EU, what documentation underwriters require, common barriers to approval, and practical steps to increase approval chances - including when to seek specialist high-risk payment solutions.
Understanding High-Risk Merchant Accounts For Double Glazing and Home Improvement Companies
As a double glazing or home improvement company, you may find it challenging to secure a traditional merchant account due to the perceived higher risk associated with your industry. Banks and payment processors often consider factors such as chargebacks, refunds, and industry regulations when evaluating your application. However, there are specialised solutions available called high-risk merchant accounts that cater specifically to businesses like yours. These accounts are designed to meet your unique needs and provide you with the necessary tools to process payments efficiently and securely.
Why Double Glazing and Home Improvement Merchant Accounts Are Considered High Risk
Merchant account underwriters classify double glazing and home improvement transactions as higher risk due to:
• High average transaction values
• Extended delivery and installation lead times
• Frequent cancellations or refunds
• Complex contracts and staged payments
• Chargeback and warranty dispute potential
These risk factors lead traditional acquiring banks to apply enhanced documentation, longer underwriting and sometimes rolling reserves.
Benefits Of Having A Merchant Account Tailored To Your Industry
Obtaining a merchant account tailored to your industry can offer numerous advantages for your double glazing or home improvement business. Some key benefits include:
Industry-Specific Expertise: High-risk merchant account providers who specialise in the double glazing and home improvement sector understand the unique challenges you face and can provide tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.
Reduced Processing Restrictions: Unlike traditional merchant accounts, high-risk solutions are designed to accommodate the specific requirements of businesses in your industry. This means you can process transactions without unnecessary limitations or restrictions.
Minimised Chargeback Risks: Chargebacks can be a common concern in the double glazing and home improvement sector. However, with a high-risk merchant account, you can access tools and strategies to effectively manage and reduce chargeback instances.
Enhanced Security Measures: Payment security is crucial for any business, especially those operating in high-risk industries. A specialised merchant account can provide robust fraud prevention measures and encryption technologies to safeguard your transactions and protect sensitive customer information.
What Merchant Account Underwriters Look For
Underwriters typically require:
• Company registration and proof of trading address
• Bank statements (6–12 months)
• Detailed website and service descriptions
• Terms and conditions including refunds, cancellations and warranties
• Projected monthly turnover and average order value
• Evidence of supply contracts and customer communication processes
Complete documentation improves approval outcomes and reduces delays.
Finding The Right Payment Gateway And Processor For Your Business
When searching for a suitable payment gateway and processor for your double glazing or home improvement company, it is important to consider several factors. These include: Industry Experience: Look for payment service providers with experience in working with high-risk industries. They will have a better understanding of your specific needs and challenges, allowing them to provide tailored solutions.
Integration Capabilities: Ensure the payment gateway you choose can seamlessly integrate with your existing systems, such as your website, CRM, and accounting software. This will streamline your payment processes and enhance efficiency.
Support and Customer Service: Reliable customer support is essential for any merchant account. Opt for a provider that offers responsive and knowledgeable support to assist you in case of any issues or questions.
Competitive Pricing: Compare the fees and rates offered by different payment processors. While cost is a factor, it’s crucial to consider the overall value and services provided to ensure you are receiving a competitive package.
Fees, Reserve Expectations and Risk Considerations
Double glazing and home improvement merchant accounts often include:
• Processing fees typically between 1.9 % and 3.9 %
• Rolling reserves to mitigate refund or dispute risk
• Chargeback fees depending on dispute history
• Higher initial risk pricing for new businesses
Clear refund, cancellation and warranty policies can reduce perceived risk and improve terms.
| Feature | Standard Merchant Account | Double Glazing / Home Improvement |
| Average transaction size | Standard | High |
| Risk classification | Low to medium | Elevated |
| Chargeback tolerance | Standard | Lower |
| Reserve requirements | Rare | Common |
| Approval time | Fast | Longer |
Essential Criteria For Approval Of High-Risk Merchant Accounts
To increase your chances of approval for a high-risk merchant account, there are several key criteria to consider:
Business Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary legal and financial documents ready, including proof of identity, licences, incorporation details, and financial statements.
Chargeback and Refund History: Be prepared to provide information on your chargeback and refund rates, as well as any steps you have taken to mitigate these risks in the future.
Compliance and Regulation: Familiarise yourself with industry regulations and ensure your business is compliant. This includes adhering to data protection laws, consumer rights, and any relevant trade association guidelines.
Financial Stability: Demonstrate the financial stability of your business by providing financial statements, bank statements, and evidence of a healthy cash flow.
How Merchant Accounts Work for High-Value Trades
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Application Submission – Complete business and financial documentation.
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Underwriting Review – Detailed review of refund and dispute policies.
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Risk Assessment – Evaluating transaction values, cancellation patterns and warranty claims.
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Approval & Terms – Issued with pricing, reserve and fee schedule.
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Onboarding & Settlement – Gateway integration and settlement instructions provided.
How Merchant Advice Service Can Help
At Merchant Advice Service, we specialise in assisting businesses in high-risk industries, including double glazing and home improvement companies, in obtaining the right merchant accounts for their needs. Our team of experts is well-versed in the intricacies of payment processing and can guide you through the entire process. We understand your industry-specific challenges and work tirelessly to find tailored solutions that meet your unique requirements. To learn more about how we can help your double glazing or home improvement business secure a suitable merchant account, visit our relevant page. Take the first step towards simplified and secure payment processing today. For more advice like this, visit our blog page!
Conclusion
High-value trades like double glazing and home improvement often face tougher underwriting due to large transactions, extended delivery and refund risk. With the right documentation, transparent policies and risk controls in place, most UK and EU businesses can secure merchant accounts tailored to their needs.
Merchant Advice Service helps double glazing and home improvement companies understand what acquirers look for and prepare applications that improve approval chances. We assess your business model, documentation and risk profile before introducing you to payment partners equipped to support high-value merchant accounts.
Speak to our specialists for tailored guidance and practical next steps.
Merchant Advice Service is here to guide you through the complexities of securing a merchant account that meets your unique needs. Take the first step towards simplified and secure payment processing today.
FAQs
Can I get a merchant account if I have a poor credit history?
Yes, it is still possible to obtain a high-risk merchant account even if you have a poor credit history. However, it may affect the rates and terms offered by the provider.
How long does the application process typically take?
The application process varies depending on the provider and the completeness of your documentation. It can range from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Can I use my existing payment gateway with a new merchant account?
In many cases, you can integrate your existing payment gateway with a new merchant account. However, it’s important to confirm compatibility with your chosen provider.
What fees should I expect with a high-risk merchant account?
Fees can vary depending on the provider, the level of risk associated with your business, and the services included. Common fees include setup fees, transaction fees, and chargeback fees.
What are the chargeback management tools available with high-risk merchant accounts?
High-risk merchant accounts often provide chargeback management tools such as real-time transaction monitoring, customer dispute resolution support, and fraud detection mechanisms.
Can I accept payments online and in-person with a high-risk merchant account?
Yes, most high-risk merchant accounts support online payments as well as in-person transactions through various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and mobile wallets.
What should I do if my application for a high-risk merchant account is declined?
If your application is declined, don’t lose hope. Consult with a specialist payment advisor who can help assess your situation, explore alternative solutions, and guide you through the process.
Is it possible to switch to a different payment provider later on?
Yes, it is generally possible to switch to a different payment provider in the future. However, it’s important to review any contractual obligations and potential termination fees before making a decision.
