A handyman does many different jobs in people’s homes, like fixing plumbing problems, putting together furniture, and doing small painting tasks. That’s why it’s important to have a variety of tools in your toolbox.
To assist you in ‘starting your handyman business’ equipped with the right tools, SwiftCloud has compiled a list of essential handyman tools tailored for your most frequent tasks, along with their average prices.
When you’re ready to shop, download this handyman tool checklist to easily track your purchases and needs.
Tools by type:
Basic hand tools for all jobs
1. Hammer ($10 – $30)
Key Features: Claw for pulling nails, comfortable grip, durable head.
2. Screwdriver Set ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Multiple heads (flathead, Phillips), magnetic tips, ergonomic handles.
3. Tape Measure ($5 – $30)
Key Features: Locking mechanism, retractable, clear markings.
4. Utility Knife ($10 – $30)
Key Features: Retractable blade, safety lock, replaceable blades.
5. Pliers ($5 – $30)
Key Features: Slip-joint, needle nose, cutting edge.
6. Adjustable Wrench ($10 – $40)
Key Features: Smooth adjustment, durable material, wide jaw opening.
7. Staple gun ($20 to $100)
Key Features: Comfortable grip for ease of use and reduced hand fatigue.
8. Stud finder ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Precision detection of wall studs, pipes, and wires, Easy-to-read LED or LCD display for accurate results. Ergonomic design for comfortable, prolonged use.</P
Basic power tools
9. Cordless Drill and drill bits($50 – $150)
Key Features: Variable speed, rechargeable battery, multiple drill bits.
10. Circular Saw ($50 – $300)
Key Features: Adjustable depth, safety guard, powerful motor.
11. Jigsaw ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Orbital settings, variable speed, easy blade changes.
12. Power Sander ($30 – $200)
Key Features: Adjustable speed, dust collection, multiple sanding pads.
13. Impact Driver $50 – $200
Key Features: High torque, rechargeable battery, compact design.
Specialized tools by job type
Depending on the services you provide, it may be necessary to acquire tools specifically designed for plumbing, painting, and other specialized tasks. Ensure you obtain the appropriate specialized tools for the work outlined below.
Plumbing tools
Essential for plumbing work, these tools include pipework tools, wrenches, and declogging equipment:
14. Pipe Wrench ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Adjustable jaws, strong grip, heavy-duty construction.
15. Plunger ($5 – $20)
Key Features: Durable rubber cup, ergonomic handle.
16. Pipe Cutter ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Sharp cutting wheel, adjustable tension, compact design.
17. Basin Wrench ($10 – $30)
Key Features: Telescoping handle, swiveling jaw, easy to grip.
18. Faucet seat wrench ($10 – $30)
Key Features: Compatibility with various faucet types , durability and ease of use.
19. Plumber’s snake ($15 – $100)
Key Features: Navigates tight pipes easily, withstands frequent use.
Appliance repair tools
Appliance repair tasks might involve fixing washers, dryers, refrigerators, ovens, and more. Ensure you’re prepared by acquiring these tools for appliance repair
20. Multimeter ($10 – $200)
Key Features: Measures voltage, current, resistance, backlit display.
21. Nut Driver Set ($15-$30)
Key Features: Various sizes, magnetic tips, comfortable handles.
22. Appliance Dolly ($60 – $200)
Key Features: Heavy-duty wheels, adjustable straps, anti-slip surface.
23. Rubber mallet ($10 – $25)
Key Features: Durable rubber head for non-marring strikes, Ccmfortable, ergonomic handle for better grip and control.
24. Temperature probe ($20 – $100)
Key Features: Accuracy: precise and reliable readings, Durability: high-quality and withstands frequent use
25. Gas leak detector ($20 – $100)
Key Features: High sensitivity, real-time alerts
Painting tools
For residential paint jobs, make sure to carry these essential pieces of painting equipment.
26. Paint Roller ($10 – $25)
Key Features: Adjustable handle, multiple roller covers, easy to clean.
27. Paint Brushes ($5 – $50)
Key Features: Various sizes, synthetic bristles, comfortable handles.
28. Painter’s Tape ($5 – $15)
Key Features: Easy to apply, clean removal, various widths.
29. Drop Cloths ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Durable material, reusable, and various sizes.
Electrical work tools
Equip your handyman tool kit for electrical repairs by adding these basic ‘electrician tools’:
30. Wire Strippers ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Multiple gauge settings, ergonomic handles, built-in cutter.
31. Voltage Tester ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Non-contact detection, LED indicators, compact size.
32. Circuit Finder ($50 – $150)
Key Features: Identifies circuits, easy to use, clear display.
Supplies and accessories
Ensure you’re ready for any handiwork job by stocking your van with these essential supplies and accessories:
33. Fasteners (Nails, Screws) ($5 – $20)
Key Features: Various sizes and types, rust-resistant.
34. Anchors (Wall, Toggle) ($5 – $15)
Key Features: High load capacity, easy to install.
35. Sealant ($5 – $20)
Key Features: Waterproof, fast-drying, easy application.
36. Lubricant (WD-40) ($5 – $15)
Key Features: Multi-purpose, easy spray, long-lasting.
Safety gear
Equip your van or truck with these safety tools to ensure the protection of yourself, your customers, and their property:
37. Safety Glasses ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Anti-fog, scratch-resistant, comfortable fit.
38. Work Gloves ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Durable material, reinforced grip, breathable fabric.
39. Ear Protection ($10 – $50)
Key Features: Noise reduction, comfortable fit, adjustable.
40. Respirator Mask $20 – $150
Key Features: Filters particles, adjustable straps, comfortable fit.
41. Hard Hat ($20 – $100)
Key Features: Impact-resistant, adjustable fit, comfortable liner.
Essential Tool Kits
42. General Tool Kit
Key Features: Comprehensive set, durable case, organized layout.
43. Electrical Tool Kit
Key Features: Insulated tools, variety of sizes, convenient case.
44. Plumbing Tool Kit
Key Features: Specialty tools, organized case, durable materials.
Advanced Hand Tools
45. Chisel Set
Key Features: Sharp edges, various sizes, ergonomic handles.
46. Hand Saw
Key Features: Sharp teeth, comfortable grip, durable blade.
47. Socket Set
Key Features: Multiple sizes, high torque, strong material.
Advanced Power Tools
48. Angle Grinder
Key Features: Variable speed, safety guard, powerful motor.
49. Router
Key Features: Variable speed, multiple bits, easy to control.
Cleaning Tools
50. Shop Vacuum
Key Features: High suction power, large capacity, versatile attachments.
51. Broom and Dustpan
Key Features: Durable bristles, comfortable handles, easy to use.
52. Cleaning Cloths
Key Features: Multi-purpose, reusable, absorbent.
Business Management Tools
In addition to hand tools and power tools, consider utilizing software that streamlines quoting, scheduling, customer service, and other aspects of managing your business.
Explore these business management technology tools to enhance your efficiency, secure handyman jobs, and ensure customer satisfaction:
53. Handyman invoice generator
The complimentary handyman invoice generator provided by SwiftCloud allows you to create and download a professional invoice that can be sent to your customers within minutes.
Simply input your company and client information, job details, and pricing. You can then download the invoice as a PDF, making it easy to send to clients.
Utilize SwiftBooks’s invoice template to ensure all necessary information is included, presenting a more professional appearance compared to handwritten invoices.
Alternatively, consider using field service invoicing software to convert job details into invoices, send multiple invoices simultaneously through batch invoicing, and automatically follow up with customers on overdue payments.
54. Accounting software
Accounting software is crucial for overseeing expenses, payments, payroll, and all financial operations. Swift Accounting assists in tracking and managing:
- Payments from clients
- Payroll for contractors or employees
- Costs associated with home repairs and handyman services, such as gas, materials, or parts
- Expense receipts for tax preparation and claiming tax deductions
55. Handyman business software
Handyman business software, such as SwiftCloud, enables business owners to efficiently manage various tasks, including creating quotes, scheduling service calls, invoicing, and collecting payments, whether they are in the office or on-site.
By utilizing SwiftCloud, business owners can secure larger jobs by offering additional services or maintenance packages. This feature allows customers to choose the option that best suits their needs, with the total updating automatically in real-time prior to their approval.
SwiftCloud also automates the follow-up process by sending quote follow-up emails and allows for the collection of quote signatures online. This functionality ensures that detailed estimates are easily accessible from the customer’s location once the job commences.
Additionally, SwiftCloud provides on-site access to essential job details, such as measurements, expenses, and photo attachments, ensuring that tasks are completed precisely as planned.
Upon job completion, the SwiftCloud Card Reader facilitates swift payment collection with a single tap. This feature not only accelerates the payment process but also enhances customer satisfaction by providing a seamless and professional experience.
Miscellaneous Tools
56. Tool Bag
Key Features: Durable material, multiple compartments, comfortable to carry.
Equipped with these 56 must-have tools, you’ll be ready to tackle any project that comes your way. Whether you’re fixing a leaky faucet, installing new light fixtures, or painting an entire house, this guide will ensure you have the right tools for the job.
Ready to take the next step in starting your handyman business? Gather these essential tools and set yourself up for success!