Cockatoo guide

Excess of loss reinsurance: layers and limits

Excess of loss reinsurance responds to eligible losses above an agreed retention within a defined layer.

Excess of loss reinsurance responds to eligible losses above an agreed retention within a defined layer.

The distinction that matters

The trigger can be per risk, per event or aggregate; the contract determines which losses combine and when protection is exhausted.

What to check

  • Check retention and layer limit.
  • Read event and aggregation definitions.
  • Review reinstatement and exclusion terms.

Example to discuss

Several storm losses may aggregate differently under a catastrophe treaty than under a per-risk contract.

This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.

Jurisdiction and scope

This is an insurer-to-reinsurer concept. A retail customer should check the original policy and insurer rather than infer a direct claim entitlement from a reinsurance structure. Reporting definitions and contract terms may differ.

Sources and further reading

General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.

Sources

References used in this guide