What Is Peril?
A peril is a specific cause of loss covered by an insurance policy — fire, wind, theft, or water damage, for example. A "named-peril" policy covers only the perils it lists; an "open-peril" (all-risk) policy covers everything except what it explicitly excludes. Knowing which structure your home policy uses changes how claims are judged.
Why it matters
The peril list is the practical answer to "will this loss pay?" — and open-peril policies are generally broader but cost more.
Common confusion
A peril is the cause of loss, not the thing damaged. "Fire" is a peril; "the roof" is what fire damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is flood a covered peril?
Not under standard home policies. Flood needs a separate NFIP or private flood policy.
Named vs open peril — which is better?
Open-peril is broader and usually better for owners who want fewer coverage gaps, at a higher premium.