What is a service lateral?

A service lateral refers to the pipe that connects the main water supply line, often referred to as the water main, to an individual property’s water meter. This connection is crucial because it allows for the distribution of potable water from the municipal supply directly to the consumer’s premises.

Understanding the function of a service lateral is key in water works as it plays a critical role in ensuring that water is delivered efficiently and meets the standards for pressure and quality. This pipe often includes shut-off valves, which provide the ability to disconnect service for maintenance or emergencies, underscoring the importance of proper installation and maintenance in water distribution systems.

Other options describe components related to water distribution but do not accurately represent the specific function of a service lateral. For example, a connection between two water mains is different from a service lateral, as it pertains to the larger infrastructure of the water system rather than the individual service connection to a property. Similarly, a type of water treatment system and a storage tank serve different purposes in the water supply chain and do not focus on the direct connection to a property's water service.