Direct answer
What does Peril mean?
An event or cause of loss, such as fire or theft, addressed by the insurance contract.
Exam cue: Determine whether the policy covers the named or described cause of loss and whether an exclusion applies.
What does it look like in a question?
New York example
A fire damages the insured dwelling, so fire is the peril that caused the covered physical loss.
Common exam trap
What should you not confuse it with?
A peril causes loss. A hazard increases the likelihood or severity of loss.
Related property insurance terms
Actual cash valueA loss-settlement measure commonly based on replacement cost less depreciation, subject to the policy language.DeductibleThe portion of a covered loss the insured must bear before the insurer's payment is calculated under the policy.ExclusionA policy provision that removes specified property, causes of loss, people or situations from coverage.HazardA condition that increases the chance or severity of loss.Liability coverageInsurance protection for covered claims that the insured is legally responsible for bodily injury or property damage to others.PremiumThe amount charged for insurance coverage for a stated period.
Sources used2 references with section locators
The curriculum citation confirms exam scope. Definition and rule citations support the explanation itself. Links and locators were checked on August 26, 2026.
- Real Estate Salesperson 77-Hour CurriculumNew York State Department of StateSupports: Exam scopeSection: Subject 12, Property Insurance
- Homeowners Insurance: Basic Coverage and Adding CoverageNew York State Department of Financial ServicesSupports: Consumer contextSection: Homeowners coverage, liability and deductibles
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Put the term back into its full subject.
A definition helps with recall. The subject guide shows how the rule interacts with documents, scenarios, calculations and practice questions.