Is Highlands, TX Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 68/100
Score 68/100 · Risk: moderate-high · Water Grade C · Updated 2026-05-03
Highlands 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 upgrade figures for Highlands land in the middle of the cost-to-equity ratio range — a concrete budget decision where scope prioritization, repair sequencing, and work timing all carry weight in determining what owners ultimately spend.
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. Highlands scores 68/100 with a "moderate-high" risk level.
What is the equity trap ratio?
The equity trap ratio measures estimated remediation costs as a percentage of median home value. A high ratio (above 5%) means fixing environmental issues could consume a significant portion of your home equity — a potential "trap" for buyers unaware of hidden costs. Highlands's equity trap ratio is 1.5%.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Highlands:
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 Highlands's 1 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 77562 | 68 | C | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Highlands, Texas has moderate-to-high risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 68/100 across 1 ZIP codes. Several risk factors require careful evaluation during due diligence.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Highlands's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade C (68/100) | Moderate risk |
| Lead Risk | 0.0020 mg/L | Low risk |
| Flood Risk | 1% in flood zones | Low risk |
| Radon | Zone 3 (Low) | Low risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 51 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Highlands:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Filtration | $600 |
| Flood Insurance | $2K |
| Pfas | $600 |
| Total (low estimate) | $2K |
| Total (mid estimate) | $3K |
| Total (high estimate) | $5K |
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.
Highlands vs. Nearby Texas Cities
How Highlands's overall risk compares to similar cities in Texas:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highlands | C | 0 | 1,035 | 10,162 |
| Savoy | C | 0 | 0 | 10,164 |
| Roanoke | A | 0 | 62 | 10,127 |
| Liberty Hill | A | 0 | 38 | 10,074 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Highlands
Before purchasing a home in Highlands, Texas, 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
Lead Paint & Pipes
- For homes built before 1978: request lead paint disclosure
- For homes built before 1986: inspect plumbing for lead solder and pipes
- 54% of Highlands 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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