Definition
The primary underground pipe delivering water from the municipal water system to your property. Most jurisdictions make homeowners responsible for the line from the meter into the house.
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Water main breaks are typically the city's responsibility, but issues with the line from the meter into the house are the homeowner's responsibility. Water quality and pressure depend on the condition of both the main line and the internal plumbing. If the area has a history of water main breaks or if you're buying a home built before modern piping standards, you may want to investigate the water line condition.
Pro Tip
Ask your real estate agent or the city about the water main history in the area.
Example
A buyer asks about water pressure and learns that the area experiences frequent water main breaks in winter; the buyer factors this into their purchase decision as potential water service interruptions.