21.1 The fact that an insured peril has been found to operate does not per se determine whether there has been a loss for which the assured is entitled to recover and, if so, which type of loss.1 It is therefore necessary to consider what constitutes a recoverable loss. The purpose of this chapter is to outline the main divisions between different types of loss, especially between different types of total loss, and some general matters relating to insured losses. Subsequent chapters will then provide specific discussion of: partial losses;2 total losses;3 and abandonment and notice thereof.4