Is Des Moines, NM Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 77/100
Score 77/100 · Risk: moderate · Water Grade B · Updated 2026-05-03
Des Moines 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
On the scale from routine upkeep to equity-straining commitments, remediation in Des Moines lands firmly toward the lower end — the repair budget here is proportionally contained, which makes safety planning a tractable financial exercise rather than a significant equity consideration for most owners.
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. Des Moines scores 77/100 with a "moderate" risk level.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Des Moines:
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 Des Moines's 1 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 88418 | 77 | B | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Des Moines, New Mexico has moderate risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 77/100 across 1 ZIP codes. Some risk factors warrant attention during the home buying process.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Des Moines's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade B (77/100) | Low risk |
| Lead Risk | 0.0010 mg/L | Low risk |
| Flood Risk | 0% in flood zones | Low risk |
| Radon | Zone 2 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 0 (Unknown) | Low risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Des Moines:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Radon | $400 |
| Filtration | $300 |
| Total (low estimate) | $150 |
| Total (mid estimate) | $700 |
| Total (high estimate) | $1K |
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.
Des Moines vs. Nearby New Mexico Cities
How Des Moines's overall risk compares to similar cities in New Mexico:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines | B | 0 | 0 | 218 |
| Folsom | D | 0 | 0 | 218 |
| Corrales | B | 0 | 20 | 220 |
| Capulin | C | 0 | 0 | 215 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Des Moines
Before purchasing a home in Des Moines, New Mexico, 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)
- Des Moines 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
Lead Paint & Pipes
- For homes built before 1978: request lead paint disclosure
- For homes built before 1986: inspect plumbing for lead solder and pipes
- 81% of Des Moines 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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