Insurance perils & risks: What's the difference?

by Marsha Collins-Mroz 01/24/2024

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Insurance perils are specific events covered in your policy. It's important to understand the limits of your homeowners insurance policy, especially any excluded perils. Here's a quick guide to the basics:

Perils commonly covered by insurance

A named perils plan covers 16 types of peril. However, it's not a universal list. For example, wind damage is not included in certain coastal zones and must be separately endorsed.

How peril, hazards & risk differ

The words risk and danger are similar to each other and are sometimes used interchangeably. However, insurance counts them as separate things. A risk is the possibility of a loss, while a peril or hazard is the actual cause of a loss.

Types of home insurance risks

Some common examples of insurance risks include:

  • Swimming pools.
  • Fireplaces.
  • Outdoor fire pits or ovens.
  • Pets.

The HO-2, HO-3 and HO-5 types of homeowners policies determine if your policies are defined against a set of specific risks based on location or home features.

Who is most affected by a home insurance peril?

A homeowner is affected by the perils insured in their policy, but so is the insurance company. Increased risk and covered perils both pose a higher cost to your insurer, which can increase the cost of your coverage.

Your mortgage lender could also be indirectly affected by home insurance risk because damage could negatively affect your home's value. To determine the specifics of your homeowners insurance, consult your provider for details.

About the Author
Author

Marsha Collins-Mroz

“Whether moving across town or around the world.. My Global Partners and I will handle all the details”

Marsha Collins-Mroz, Broker, "Global Partners in Real Estate"

Marsha brings her combined 46 years of successful real estate brokerage experience and expertise to every transaction. Recognizing the overwhelming demand for personalized and objective consulting services and assistance, Marsha expanded her business model to a national and international scale. She consults and oversees the acquisition and disposition of primary residences, vacation/second homes, and commercial real estate. And presents on U.S. opportunities in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Her personally vetted network of Global Partners are uniquely skilled and positioned to assist with the needs of her clients; focusing on advancing their knowledge of local markets and opportunities, empowering them to make informed decisions.