CLUE stands for Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange, a claims database run by LexisNexis Risk Solutions. Participating insurers report personal auto and homeowners claims to it. When a person applies for coverage, the new insurer can pull a CLUE report showing past claims: date, type of loss, amount paid and the insurer that paid it.
There are two kinds: a personal property report (tied to the person and to the property address) and a personal auto report. State regulators such as Washington’s describe the history as generally covering up to seven years. Because it’s a consumer report under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, consumers can get a free copy and dispute errors with LexisNexis.
How it shows up in an agency
A couple is buying a house and wants a homeowners quote. The carrier’s CLUE pull shows two water claims at the property under the previous owner. Some carriers decline the risk or surcharge it, even though the buyers never filed a claim. Agents often suggest buyers ask the seller for a CLUE report on the property before closing.
Another common case: a client calls to “ask about” a small hail claim. If the carrier opens a file, it may show on CLUE even with no payment, depending on the carrier’s reporting. Agents usually advise clients to call the agency first to talk through whether a loss near the deductible is worth filing.
See carriers on our homeowners and personal auto pages.
Common confusion
- CLUE vs. MVR. CLUE is claims history; an MVR is the state’s record of violations.
- Not the only database. Verisk runs a similar database (A-PLUS), so carriers may use either.
- Commercial lines don’t use CLUE. Commercial underwriters rely on loss runs from prior carriers instead.