What it means
Meters support billing, leak detection, demand analysis, and conservation. Service lines include taps, corporation stops, curb stops, and customer-side plumbing depending on local ownership rules.
What operators watch
- Meter accuracy can change with age, size, flow range, and installation conditions.
- Service-line leaks may appear as pressure complaints, wet areas, or unexplained usage.
- Ownership responsibility varies by utility and jurisdiction.
Common exam traps
- Assuming the utility owns every part of the service line.
- Ignoring low-flow accuracy when discussing meters.
- Confusing meter reading with pressure measurement.
Field example
A customer with unusually high usage may have a private-side leak, a running fixture, or a meter-reading issue that needs investigation.
