Is Alma, MI Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 85/100
Score 85/100 · Risk: moderate · Water Grade A · Updated 2026-05-03
Alma has moderate risk. Some factors warrant attention during the home buying process.
Data: EPA SDWIS, FEMA NFIP, Census ACS, EPA Radon Zones Last verified: 2026-05-03
When the remediation range in Alma is placed against local home-value data, the result is a lower-tier equity-share figure — a cost frame that most standard financial planning approaches can absorb without requiring extraordinary budget measures or equity-backed financing.
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. Alma scores 85/100 with a "moderate" risk level.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Alma:
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 Alma's 2 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48801 | 82 | B | View report → |
| 48802 | 88 | A | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Alma, Michigan has moderate risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 85/100 across 2 ZIP codes. Some risk factors warrant attention during the home buying process.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Alma's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade A (85/100) | Low risk |
| Lead Risk | Testing pending | Low risk |
| Flood Risk | 50% in flood zones | Elevated risk |
| Radon | Zone 3 (Low) | Low risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 0 (Unknown) | Low risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Alma:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Flood Insurance | $1K |
| Total (low estimate) | $800 |
| Total (mid estimate) | $1K |
| Total (high estimate) | $2K |
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.
Alma vs. Nearby Michigan Cities
How Alma's overall risk compares to similar cities in Michigan:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alma | A | 0 | 29 | 9,182 |
| Elwell | C | 0 | 0 | 9,182 |
| Saint Louis | B | 0 | 1 | 9,182 |
| Sumner | B | 0 | 1 | 9,182 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Alma
Before purchasing a home in Alma, Michigan, 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)
Radon
- Conduct a radon test ($15-$30 for short-term kit, $150-$300 for professional)
Flood Risk
- Check the property's FEMA flood zone at msc.fema.gov
- Ask about flood history and past insurance claims
- 50% of Alma 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
- 76% of Alma 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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