Is Northbrook, IL Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 43/100
Score 43/100 · Risk: moderate-high · Water Grade D · Updated 2026-05-03
Northbrook has moderate-to-high risk. Several risk factors require careful evaluation.
Data: EPA SDWIS, FEMA NFIP, Census ACS, EPA Radon Zones Last verified: 2026-05-03
Home safety upgrades in Northbrook carry a comparatively light financial footprint against local property wealth.
What is a home safety score?
The home safety score (0-100) combines multiple environmental risk factors into a single number: water quality grade, lead contamination levels, flood zone exposure, radon risk, and air quality. A higher score means lower overall risk. The score helps homebuyers compare neighborhoods at a glance. Northbrook scores 43/100 with a "moderate-high" risk level.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Northbrook:
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages. Actual costs vary by property. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Per-ZIP Home Safety Scores
Safety scores vary across Northbrook's 2 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60062 | 42 | D | View report → |
| 60065 | 44 | D | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Northbrook, Illinois has moderate-to-high risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 43/100 across 2 ZIP codes. Several risk factors require careful evaluation during due diligence.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Northbrook's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade D (43/100) | Elevated risk |
| Lead Risk | 0.0160 mg/L | Elevated risk |
| Flood Risk | 50% in flood zones | Elevated risk |
| Radon | Zone 2 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 77 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Northbrook:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Lead | $2K |
| Radon | $400 |
| Flood Insurance | $600 |
| Total (low estimate) | $2K |
| Total (mid estimate) | $3K |
| Total (high estimate) | $4K |
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages and local data. Actual costs vary by property condition, contractor, and scope of work. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Northbrook vs. Nearby Illinois Cities
How Northbrook's overall risk compares to similar cities in Illinois:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northbrook | D | 2 | 127 | 42,671 |
| Buffalo Grove | B | 0 | 22 | 43,212 |
| East Saint Louis | D | 0 | 868 | 43,673 |
| Bartlett | C | 1 | 9 | 41,500 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Northbrook
Before purchasing a home in Northbrook, Illinois, complete these checks:
Water Quality
- Request the latest Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from the water utility
- Test tap water for lead, bacteria, and nitrates ($20-$50 for DIY kit)
- 2 ZIP codes exceed EPA lead limits — test lead specifically
Radon
- Conduct a radon test ($15-$30 for short-term kit, $150-$300 for professional)
- Northbrook is in Radon Zone 2 (Moderate risk) — testing is strongly recommended
Flood Risk
- Check the property's FEMA flood zone at msc.fema.gov
- Ask about flood history and past insurance claims
- 50% of Northbrook is in flood zones — verify insurance requirements
Lead Paint & Pipes
- For homes built before 1978: request lead paint disclosure
- For homes built before 1986: inspect plumbing for lead solder and pipes
- 67% of Northbrook homes built before 1986 — pipe inspection recommended
General
- Check for carbon monoxide detectors on every level
- Inspect for visible mold, water stains, or musty odors
- Verify the home's connection to a regulated public water system
Data Sources
- Water quality: EPA SDWIS
- Lead: EPA Lead and Copper Rule
- Flood: FEMA NFIP
- Radon: EPA Radon Zones
- Air quality: EPA AirNow
- Home values: U.S. Census Bureau ACS B25077
- Remediation costs: National cost model (EPA, Census, FEMA data)
Updated daily.
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