Game Server Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers the most commonly asked questions about Host Havoc game servers and billing. For panel-specific guides, see Create and Restore Server Backups or Add Sub-Users to Your Game Control Panel.
Why is my server still pending?
All paid services are activated instantly in most cases. However, a few situations can delay activation:
- If you paid via e-Check, it can take 8 to 10 days to clear. You can submit an immediate payment method and have the e-Check cancelled if you need your server sooner.
- If you paid via Coinpayments, it can take up to 30 minutes to fully process the fraud check on our end.
If your payment has cleared and neither situation applies, submit a support ticket.
Why does my card keep getting declined?
Most card declines happen because your bank blocks the charge. Host Havoc is a Canadian company operating online, and some banks block international purchases by default. Contact your bank to allow the charge, or check out via PayPal using the same card.
If you are using a gift card, note that gift cards are hit or miss across payment processors. Try each available credit card checkout method (PayPal, Stripe) to see which accepts it.
Why was I automatically charged?
When you signed up, you selected a billing period. Your service renews automatically at that interval until cancelled. Host Havoc does not store your credit card number directly: a payment token is used to process renewals securely. If you want to disable automatic renewal, submit a support ticket requesting the change.
How do I cancel my service?
Cancellation is fully automated and does not require contacting the billing department.
- Log into the billing area at hosthavoc.com/billing.
- Click Services.
- Click your service.
- Click Request Cancellation on the left-hand side.
Choosing immediate cancellation terminates your service and data right away. Choosing end-of-period cancellation keeps the server running until the billing period expires. Services not renewed have their files automatically deleted after 5 days.
Why am I being charged taxes?
Host Havoc is an established Canadian business and is required to charge applicable taxes to all Canadian residents based on their province. Advanced fraud-prevention tools cross-check client addresses to ensure compliance with Canadian Revenue Agency requirements.
My server still says "Processing" on the control panel
Once payment is confirmed, your server begins installing. Installation can take up to 30 to 45 minutes for larger games such as ARK: Survival Evolved, Conan Exiles, and Arma 3. Do not attempt to start the server from the billing area during installation: it will not speed up the process and may cause issues.
What kind of hardware does Host Havoc use?
For current hardware specifications, refer to the hardware information page in the Host Havoc knowledgebase. Submit a support ticket if you have specific questions about the infrastructure your server runs on.
If I upgrade my server, do I lose my progress?
No. Upgrading your service restarts the server and applies the new configuration (such as a higher slot count) immediately. Your save data and settings are preserved.
Can I transfer my service to someone else?
Yes. To transfer a service:
- Have the new owner register a billing account at hosthavoc.com/billing if they do not already have one.
- Submit a support ticket from your account requesting the transfer. Include the new owner's email address.
Your personal information is not shared with the new owner during the transfer.
How can people donate to my server?
Host Havoc has a public pay system that lets anyone donate directly to your account, ensuring funds go toward your server. Create a public pay link from the billing area at hosthavoc.com/billing/index.php?m=public_pay and share it with your community.
Note: all donations are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
Can I get a refund?
Host Havoc's refund policy applies to a customer's first purchase within 72 hours of purchase: a full refund is available on request if you are not satisfied.
If you purchased a service for longer than 3 months (quarterly, bi-annual, or annual), you are eligible for a pro-rated credit back to your Host Havoc account, minus any discounts applied for the longer billing term. This does not apply to month-to-month subscriptions. Refunds for billing errors are handled on a per-case basis: contact the billing department via support ticket.
How do I apply account credit to an invoice?
- Open your invoices in the billing area.
- Select your payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.) first.
- Open the invoice. An option to apply account credit will appear once a payment method is selected.