What is a CLUE Report?
Have you ever heard of using a CLUE Report when purchasing a new home? People purchasing a used car have most likely heard of CARFAX vehicle history reports. These help them avoid buying a car with costly hidden problems. Buyers are less likely to know about CLUE Reports. These reports disclose some of the repair history of properties,
Lexis Nexis C.L.U.E. (Claims Loss Underwriting Exchange) is a claims history database that enables insurance companies to access consumer claims. These reports go back for the previous seven years when they are underwriting a risk or rating an insurance policy.
An insurance underwriter could identify a previous claim for substantial damage to a property. They can then find out about repair history before assuming the risk as a new insurer. Similarly, a buyer benefits from knowing about former claims that may affect property value or possible, future repairs.
How Can a CLUE Report Help?
A CLUE report can discover insurance claims on a home. A buyer could check to see whether the repairs were done properly. These reports are not directly available to potential buyers. However, their property casualty insurance agent could order a report during negotiations with the seller. A clean CLUE Report can be a condition of a successful contract of sale.
With a CLUE Report, a buyer could pinpoint issues they were concerned about. They could address those things with the inspector during the inspection period. Also, the CLUE Report could detect items that may not be visible during a home inspection.
In some cases, a listing agent might suggest a seller share their CLUE Report. This would show the buyer acting in the spirit of full disclosure to potential buyers. Even if there were claims. if the repairs were done properly it could help to achieve a successful sale.
Obtaining a Report on Your Property
A current homeowner can request one free CLUE report every twelve months online or by calling 888-497-0011. You can also send an email to [email protected]. You will need to provide your first and last name, social security number, driver’s license number and state in which it was issued, date of birth, current home address and phone number. For more information, see Lexis Nexis Consumer Portal.
If a buyer doesn’t have a property casualty insurance agent, your real estate agent can recommend one.