Basis of Preparation and Consolidation (Details) - $ / shares	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	May 30, 2014
Ordinary shares, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
XL Ireland [Member]
Ordinary shares, par value (in dollars per share)	0.01
XL Group Ltd [Member]
Ordinary shares, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01
XL Re Life (SAC) Ltd
Quota Share Reinsurance Percentage			100.00%