Washington § 48.15.020 - Solicitation by unauthorized insurer prohibited — Personal liability.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 48.15.020 — Solicitation by unauthorized insurer prohibited — Personal liability., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 48.15.020. Solicitation by unauthorized insurer prohibited — Personal liability.

(1) An insurer that is not authorized by the commissioner may not solicit insurance business in this state or transact insurance business in this state, except as provided in this chapter.
(2)(a) A person may not, in this state, represent an unauthorized insurer except as provided in this chapter. This subsection does not apply to any adjuster or attorney-at-law representing an unauthorized insurer from time to time in this state in his or her professional capacity.
(b) A person, other than a duly licensed surplus line broker acting in good faith under his or her license, who makes a contract of insurance in this state, directly or indirectly, on behalf of an unauthorized insurer, without complying with the provisions of this chapter, is personally liable for the performance of such contract.
(3) Each violation of subsection (2) of this section constitutes a separate offense punishable by a fine of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars, and the commissioner, at the commissioner's discretion, may order replacement of policies improperly placed with an unauthorized insurer with policies issued by an authorized insurer. Violations may result in suspension or revocation of a license.
[ 2003 c 250 s 2; 1992 c 149 s 1; 1983 1st ex.s. c 32 s 3; 1980 c 102 s 2; 1947 c 79 s .15.02; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 45.15.02.]

Notes

Severability—2003 c 250: See note following RCW 48.01.080.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 48.15.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 48.15.020 cover?

Section 48.15.020 ("Solicitation by unauthorized insurer prohibited — Personal liability.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 48.15.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 48.15.020" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 48.15.020 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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