Which of the following is a covered peril under most standard homeowner's policies?

Fire is a covered peril under most standard homeowner's policies because it represents a significant risk that can lead to substantial damage to property. Homeowner's insurance is specifically designed to protect homeowners from sudden and accidental damages that can result from various natural events and hazards, and fire is one of the primary perils insured against. This coverage typically extends to losses caused directly by fire, including damages from smoke and even certain types of explosion caused by fire.

In contrast, wear and tear, negligence, and intentional damage do not qualify as covered perils. Wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration of property over time, which is considered a maintenance issue rather than an insurable risk. Negligence involves actions that result in damage due to a failure to take reasonable care, which is generally excluded from standard homeowner's policies as it reflects the homeowner's lack of responsibility. Intentional damage, on the other hand, relates to damage inflicted deliberately, which is excluded from coverage because insurance is meant to protect against unforeseen circumstances rather than deliberate acts. Therefore, the primary purpose of homeowner's policies is to provide financial protection against unexpected events, making fire a key covered peril.