What is a service lateral in water distribution?

A service lateral in water distribution refers specifically to the pipeline that extends from the water main to the customer's service line or meter. This is the critical component that provides the customer with direct access to the public water system. The service lateral is responsible for delivering potable water from the distribution system to individual homes or businesses, making it an essential part of the infrastructure for water delivery.

This connection is usually located underground and is subject to regulations concerning materials and installation methods to ensure safety and reliability in water supply. Understanding the role of the service lateral helps water distribution professionals ensure proper maintenance and troubleshooting of water supply issues.