---
title: What is a 'True Umbrella'?
description: The terms 'umbrella' and 'excess liability' are often used interchangeably, but there are major differences between the two that you should know about
---

# WHAT IS A 'TRUE UMBRELLA'?

* * *

## What is a 'True Umbrella'?

The terms 'umbrella' and 'excess liability' are often used interchangeably, but there are major differences between the two that you should know about.

Both umbrella and excess policies are valuable because they provide coverage beyond underlying limits. **But that’s where the similarities end.**

The key difference between umbrella coverage and excess liability is that **an umbrella is an open-peril policy** – which means if it’s not specifically excluded, it’s covered. In contrast, an excess liability policy only covers what’s included in the primary liability policy. This is an important distinction and one that could have major consequences for your customers.

The problem is they're both referred to as umbrella policies, which can be confusing.

**Call your agent - ask if you #1. Have an umbrella? & #2. Do I have a True Umbrella?**

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