(1) Prior to the issuance of a license as public adjuster, the applicant therefor shall file with the commissioner and shall thereafter maintain in force while so licensed a surety bond in favor of the people of the state of Washington, executed by an authorized corporate surety approved by the commissioner, in the amount of five thousand dollars. The bond may be continuous in form, and total aggregate liability on the bond may be limited to the payment of five thousand dollars. The bond shall be contingent on the accounting by the adjuster to any insured whose claim he or she is handling, for moneys or any settlement received in connection therewith.

     (2) Any such bond shall remain in force until the surety is released from liability by the commissioner, or until canceled by the surety. Without prejudice to any liability accrued prior to cancellation, the surety may cancel a bond upon thirty days advance notice in writing filed with the commissioner.

     (3) Such bond shall be required of any adjuster acting as a public adjuster as of the effective date of this code, or thereafter under any unexpired license heretofore issued.

[2009 c 549 § 7063; 1977 ex.s. c 182 § 5; 1947 c 79 § .17.43; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 45.17.43.]