Who investigates complaints against surplus lines brokers in Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance is the authoritative body responsible for overseeing the insurance market within the state, including the surplus lines sector. This department is tasked with the regulation and enforcement of insurance laws, which includes handling consumer complaints against licensed surplus lines brokers. When issues arise concerning a broker's practices or adherence to regulations, it is the Department of Insurance that conducts investigations to ensure compliance and protect consumers.

Local law enforcement agencies typically focus on criminal matters rather than regulatory compliance in the insurance industry. A private independent agency may not have the jurisdiction or authority to investigate such complaints, and the brokers' association primarily serves the interests of brokers rather than acting as an investigative entity. Thus, the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance directly aligns with the responsibilities and powers necessary to handle complaints and uphold the standards of the insurance industry within the state.