Chests can be destroyed for their loot, doors broke, all with enough effort and a blacksmith to repair stuff. I have a rogue with lucky find, perception, lockpick, pickpocket, sneak. Lockpick was usually way too low to open stuff, perception helps find things on the map. Basically the secrets vendor sells a lot of maps perception could find. I havent found many things requiring super high perception.
So no, I dont think its mandatory, but a rogue or someone with a reason to 'lead the pack' does help.
