What is the key feature of surplus lines insurance?

The key feature of surplus lines insurance is that it is utilized when coverage cannot be obtained from standard insurers. Surplus lines insurance serves as a solution for unique or high-risk circumstances that fall outside the typical offerings of conventional insurance companies. This can occur in various situations, such as when the risk is considered too great or specialized, leading to a lack of available coverage in the traditional market.

Given this context, option B accurately captures the essence of surplus lines insurance by highlighting its role as an alternative source of coverage. The other choices do not encapsulate the primary characteristic of surplus lines insurance effectively. It is not exclusive to personal lines, does not guarantee coverage for all types of insurance, and while licensed agents typically facilitate the sale of surplus lines, this is not the defining feature that distinguishes this type of insurance from standard insurance offerings.