What is a Water Service Line?

Water service lines are small pipes that carry water from the City of Houston's water mains, located in the streets, to individual homes and buildings. Water service lines can be made of plastic, brass, copper, cast iron, ductile iron, lead, or galvanized steel. Federal law banned lead water service lines in the late 1980s, so homes built after 1989 should not have lead service lines. 
 
Who Owns the Water Service Line?

The City owns the water service line from the main in the street to the water meter, typically at the edge of the property line. The property owner owns the water service line from the water meter to where it enters the building and connects with the building’s internal plumbing.