A sump pit is a specially designed hole or basin located in the lowest part of a basement or crawl space. Its primary purpose is to collect excess water that may accumulate due to heavy rain, melting snow, or groundwater seepage. The pit is usually lined with concrete or plastic to prevent erosion and is equipped with a pump to remove the water. The water collected in the sump pit is typically pumped away from the foundation of the building to prevent flooding and water damage. This system is often part of a larger sump pump setup, which helps maintain a dry and safe environment in homes, especially in areas prone to flooding.