35 Must-Have Handyman Tools: Essential Gear for Every Job

Imagine reaching for your screwdriver midway through an installation and not finding it. Now you’re stuck between two choices: head back to your workshop or drop by a hardware store for a replacement. Whatever you do, you’re wasting valuable time, and this can cost you a client.

But it’s not just about a disorganized setup. Outdated tools are just as bad. They eat up your time and chip away at your credibility. You could lose easy wins or high-paying jobs and look less professional because you don’t have the right equipment.

If you’re struggling with outdated tools and jumbled setups or relying on your memory instead of digital systems, it’s definitely time for an upgrade.

35 Must-Have Tools for Every Handyman Business

Basic Tools for Handyman Work: Your Day 1 Essentials

It’s tempting to grab the cheapest handyman tools you can find—they save you money, after all. However, bargain tools are less reliable and can break down mid-job, making you spend twice as much.

For this reason, this handyman tools list only features items from reputable companies like Stanley, DEWALT, and Milwaukee.

1. Stanley 25-Ft Tape Measure

The Stanley 25-foot tape measure is compact, reliable, and a must-have for measurements. The length allows you to measure wall spans and ceiling heights without needing a second pair of hands. It also has a sturdy 11-foot standout, meaning the blade stays rigid when extended. This makes it perfect for overhead jobs or when working solo.

Recommended Tape Measure: STANLEY® FATMAX® 25 ft. x 1-1/4 in. Premium Tape

2. Milwaukee 19-oz Smooth-Face Hammer

The Milwaukee 19-ounce hammer offers the best driving performance. It’s made for control and durability, making it your go-to tool when constructing a wall or handling repairs. Its smooth-face design guarantees that no dents are left on surfaces. This hammer is perfect for finishing carpentry, where aesthetics are crucial.

Recommended Smooth-Face Hammer: Milwaukee 19oz Smooth-Face Hickory Handle Framing Hammer

3. Utility Knife

A utility knife is a lifesaver for opening boxes or slicing through plastic packaging. It’s ideal for precision cuts, drywall scouring, and shaving wood shims. The best part is that your knife will always remain sharp because you can replace dull blades in seconds. It’s one of those tools you’ll grab multiple times during a single gig.

Recommended Utility Knife: WORKPRO Premium Utility Knife

4. Torpedo Level

A torpedo level is a compact level that’s built for tight spaces where a full-size level won’t fit. It comes in handy when you need to check if a surface is well-aligned vertically and horizontally. It is essential for leveling the slope of pipes,  hanging shelves, and aligning doors. And it’s small enough to fit in your back pocket, so you can grab it whenever you need it.

Recommended Torpedo Level: Milwaukee 7 in. Billet Torpedo Level

5. Hex Key Set

Also called an Allen key or wrench, a hex key is a simple handyman tool you can’t go wrong with. It’s crucial for tightening and loosening hexagonal bolts, which seem to show up everywhere, whether you’re assembling furniture, adjusting door handles, or doing odd jobs for your client.

Recommended Hex Key Set: Bondhus 12522 GorillaGrip Hex Fold-Up Double Pack

Handyman Must-Have Tools That Will Save You Hours

If you want to work faster and more efficiently, here are the essential gear you should have on your handyman tools list:

6. Screwdriver Set (Flathead, Phillips, and Precision)

Screwdrivers come in different sizes. As a handyman, you need a variety of them to tackle various tasks. 

• Phillips: A cross-shaped driver that’s great for screws in cabinet hinges and general hardware 
• Flathead: A classic single-slot driver for older fixtures and outlet covers and prying open paint cans 
• Precision: Ideal for delicate work like glasses, jewelry making, or electronics repair.

Screwdriver Set Recommendation: Milwaukee 6-Piece Phillips and Slotted Head Screwdriver Set

7. Adjustable Wrench

A conventional fixed spanner can only be used with one fastener head, which means you’ll need a whole set to tackle different sizes. That’s why an adjustable wrench is a lifesaver. It comes with a movable jaw that adjusts to fit various fastener heads, helping you tighten plumbing connections and grip odd-sized bolts without additional tools.

Adjustable Wrench Recommendation: 150mm/6 in MAXSTEEL™ Adjustable Wrench

8. Socket Set

A socket set saves you time when dealing with appliance work, assembling equipment, or repairing a vehicle. Unlike a regular spanner, it uses a closed socket that fits over bolts and nuts of many sizes. It lets you tighten and loosen different types of fasteners without having to reposition the tool after every turn.

Socket Set Recommendation: DEWALT Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set

9. Chalk Line

A chalk line (or chalk box) is your go-to tool for marking long, clean layout lines on walls, floors, and decks. It’s a simple handyman tool made of a plastic or metal case filled with powdered chalk and an 18- to 50-foot string inside. You only need to pull the string, stretch it tight between two points, and snap it against the surface to leave a crisp line.

Chalk Line Recommendation: STANLEY 0-47-465 30M PowerWinder Chalk Line

10. Stud Finder

A stud finder is a non-negotiable for wall work. The last thing you want is to drill into a live wire or a pipe behind your client’s wall, and a stud finder helps you avoid these. Whether you need to mount a television, install cabinets, or hang a shelf, this tool helps you locate the wooden studs behind drywall, ensuring a secure anchor point for heavy items.

Stud Finder Recommendation: BOSCH GMS120-27 Wall Scanner and Stud Finder

Power Up: The Most Important Power Tools for Handymen

When it comes to power tools, DeWalt XR and Milwaukee M18 Fuel are among the top gear that will give you a lot of bang for your buck. 

11. 20V Cordless Drill

A 20V cordless drill is your daily driver for everything, from pre-drilling holes to driving screws and fastening hardware. It packs all the power you need for tough tasks, and its cordless design adds to its allure. Whether you’re working outdoors or in a confined area, you won’t trip over cords.

20V Cordless Drill Example: DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit 

12. Impact Driver

An impact driver handles tough bolts, lag screws, and decking jobs with ease. It delivers a powerful force that makes it easy to drive long screws or tough bolts into dense materials. You don’t even have to lean your whole body into it to keep the bit seated—the impacting action keeps it locked in place.

Impact Driver Example: Milwaukee 2953-20 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/4’’ Hex Impact Driver

13. Oscillating Multi-Tool

An oscillating multi-tool is great for undercutting door jambs, sanding, and flush cuts. It also comes in handy when slicing through drywall or making a tricky cut in areas where other tools won’t fit. It comes with multiple blade attachments, which you can swap within seconds and handle different tasks without reaching for another tool.

Oscillating Multi-Tool Example: DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool Kit

Unusual & Unique Handyman Tools You’ll End Up Using Weekly

Unusual tools for the handyman set you apart from the fly-by-night guys. When clients see that you have a solid tool setup, it will be easier to win them over and close a deal.

Pro Tip: Mention unique gear in your quote to justify premium pricing.

14. Inspection Camera

Some jobs require you to access areas that are hard to reach. That’s where an inspection camera (or video borescope) comes in. It helps you diagnose behind walls, under sinks, and crawl spaces without unnecessary demolition. You won’t have to squeeze into confined spaces and risk harming yourself. Just slide the camera in and see what’s on the other side.

Recommended Inspection Camera: DEPSTECH Industrial Endoscope 

15. Laser Measure

A laser measure is your go-to tool for fast and accurate distance checks. Unlike a regular tape measure, you don’t need an extra pair of hands at the other end. Just aim the laser at your target point, push a button, and get an accurate reading. So, the next time you shop for handyman tools, grab a laser measure, especially if you’re running a one-man team.

Recommended Laser Measure: BOSCH GLM165-25G 165 Ft Blaze Green-Beam Laser Distance Measure 

16. Right-Angle Drill Attachment

Whenever you want to bore holes into places that are difficult to reach, grab a right-angle drill attachment. It lets you drill holes in cabinets, between studs, and other tight spots without compromising quality. And, because it’s lightweight, you can control it one-handed or steady it with both hands for tougher jobs.

Recommended Right-Angle Drill Attachment: Milwaukee Right-Angle Drill Attachment

Specialty Tools to Offer More Services (And Charge More)

Specialty tools unlock more “yes” jobs without licensing in most areas. Once you add them to your toolkit, you can start offering additional services to expand your income. More services mean more profits and higher customer satisfaction. When customers trust you to deliver value, they’re more likely to recommend you to others in their network.

These are the most important specialty tools for your handyman business:

17. Electrical Tester

An electrical tester allows you to check for live wires, faulty outlets, or sketchy connections before you touch anything. The real value is the safety it offers. When troubleshooting dead outlets, flickering lights, or some other electrical issue, this tool ensures you don’t jeopardize your life by making blind guesses. Instead, it points you to the exact issue you’re dealing with, helping you work smarter, faster, and safely.

Electrical Tester Example: Fluke 1AC II Non-Contact Voltage Tester

18. Voltage Detector

At a glance, a voltage detector seems like an electrical tester with a different design. However, this gear is your first-line safety tool, since it lets you run voltage checks with zero contact. Just bring this gear near an electricity source, and it will beep or light up if it detects voltage. Think of it like an electrical tester’s more convenient cousin that excels at fast diagnostic jobs.

Voltage Detector Example: Milwaukee Voltage Detector with LED

19. Pipe Wrench

For plumbing gigs like sink connections and leaky pipe fixes, this gear saves you time and effort. A pipe wrench is a specialty tool for turning plumbing fittings and pipework. It comes with serrated teeth jaws that grip round surfaces, letting you loosen stuck connections when other methods might not be effective.

Pipe Wrench Example: Milwaukee Steel Pipe Wrench

20. Basin Wrench

If you’ve ever tried to tighten a faucet under a sink, you know how frustrating basic handyman tools can be. Specialized tools like basin wrenches make it easier to adjust nuts and turn pipes in confined spaces, including under sinks. That’s why they’re also called sink wrenches.

Basin Wrench Example: Milwaukee 2.5″ Basin Wrench

21. Staple Gun

A staple gun (or powered stapler) is just what you need when binding light materials together—from fabric to thin wood and carpets. It drives U-shaped heavy metal staples into delicate materials with speed and precision, making it perfect for insulation, wire securing, and minor carpentry projects.

Staple Gun Example: DEWALT Staple Gun 

22. Caulking Gun

A caulking gun is required for sealing, finishing, and waterproofing work. It holds a tube of adhesive that lets you seal gaps and cracks, preventing leakage. Whether you’re sealing windows, doors, and countertops, a loaded caulking gun makes your job faster.

Caulking Gun Example: DEWALT 20V MAX Caulking Gun

Best Tool Storage for Handyman Vans and Trucks

Good storage saves you time and money. No more digging around for a lost wrench or voltage tester. So, you can work smarter from the back of your vehicle.

Insurance Tip: Install lockable storage in your vehicle to comply with business insurance policies.

23. Modular Tool Storage (PACKOUT, TSTAK)

Modular tool storage systems are game-changers for keeping things in order. They’re built with durable, click-in storage you can customize and move around. You can stack each module with a different category of tools and lock them together into one unit for easy transportation.

Suggested Modular Tool Storage: DEWALT TSTAK Tool Box 

24. Drawer Slides or Shelving Units

Drawer slides and shelving units are perfect tools for handyman vans. You can install drawer slides on the floor for bulkier gear, while lightweight items like screwdriver sets go into shelving units. Either way, your vehicle stays uncluttered, and you no longer have to worry about tools rolling on the floor each time you hit a road bump.

Suggested Drawer Slide or Shelving Unit: DECKED truck bed Drawer System

25. Lockboxes

Lockboxes are heavy-duty vaults where you can store spare keys and job site access cards, securing them from theft. The safest lockboxes require a secret code to open, and some advanced models grant access via a mobile app. Beyond theft protection, lockboxes also ensure compliance with business insurance policies that mandate secure tool storage.

Suggested Lockbox: KeyGuard SL-591 Car Window Punch Button Lock Box

Best Handyman Digital Tools That Run Your Business

Digital tools take your handyman gig from a side hustle to serious business. These days, customers expect options like quick invoicing and online booking. So, if you’re not going digital, you’re leaving potential sales on the table. 

26. Housecall Pro’s Handyman Business Software

Housecall Pro’s handyman business software is an all-in-one app for scheduling, invoicing, payments, and reminders. These are its key highlights:

1. Let Customers Book You 24/7: With online booking and scheduling, your customers can lock in a job through your website or a direct link—no more endless texts or phone tags.
2. Send Estimates and Invoices in Seconds: Create estimates and convert them into invoices right on the spot—all from one app.
3. Never Forget a Job or a Customer Detail Again: Keep track of repeat clients, job history, and those little notes that make a big difference.
4. Get Paid Fast—Right After the Job: Accept credit cards and digital payments on-site, so you’re not waiting days (or weeks) to get paid.

Top Financial Tools for Handymen to Stay Profitable

Avoid the rookie mistake of mixing business and personal money. This makes it hard to track your actual profits and expenses, putting you at risk of non-compliance. 

Revenue Tip: Track your average profits to price your offerings smarter and grow your business with confidence.

27. QuickBooks or Accounting Software

Accounting software is another must-have tool for a handyman. With manual data entry, you’re stuck juggling error-prone paper receipts and invoices. On the other hand, accounting software like QuickBooks is built to manage your financial records. It helps you track expenses and invoices, ensuring every dollar is accounted for.

28. Separate Business Bank Account

A business account makes you look legit. If a customer is trying to pay for a service and your business name shows up on an invoice, they’ll feel more confident about hiring you. 

A separate account also helps you track your cash flow and see how much profit you’re making. While it’s not a legal requirement for handymen, it’s a worthy investment if you want to avoid financial headaches down the line.

Insurance, Licenses & Legal Tools You Can’t Skip

Clients feel safer booking you when they know you’re operating legally. So, whether you’re running a startup or working solo, there are some legal handyman tools you can’t bypass.

Pro Tip: Store digital copies of your legal documents in your Housecall Pro account so they’re always ready when a client asks.

29. General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance protects your handyman business from claims of injury, bodily harm, and property damage. You’ll have coverage for those unexpected moments when someone trips over your extension cord or slips on a wet floor. Without this insurance, a liability claim could drain your finances and shut your business down, so it’s a non-negotiable for handyman services. 

30. Business Registration + EIN

If you’re serious about turning your hustle into a profitable handyman business, you need to get registered. Business registration is an essential part of starting your business. It involves four-step process:

• Choose a unique business name.
• Select your preferred legal structure, such as an LLC or sole proprietorship. 
• Get your Employee Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This enables you to hire employees, open a business account, and file taxes. 
• Verify the licensing regulations in your city and obtain the necessary permits to do business lawfully.

31. Digital Job Contracts

Don’t leave your jobs to verbal agreements and handshakes. Opt for a digital job contract instead. It’s the electronic equivalent of a paper contract that clearly outlines project terms, scope, and pricing. This speeds up approvals and keeps you and your clients on the same page. You can create templates in your software to stay legally protected if a dispute happens later. 

How to Organize Handyman Tools (And Actually Find Stuff)

Nobody wants a handyman who spends ages searching for a missing wrench. When your tools are well-organized, clients can see that you’re prepared for the job, and this builds trust from the get-go.

Time-Saving Tip: To avoid the stress of rushing around in the morning, load your truck the night before.

32. Stackable Toolboxes or Totes

With stackable toolboxes, you can label your gear by job type—HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and more. This lets you grab what you need without guessing. Even if you receive an urgent “plumbing” gig, you won’t have to rummage through different boxes to find the tools you need. They are already labeled, so you can just grab your plumbing tote and head out.

33. Pegboard or Slatwall Storage

Pegboard and slatwall shelves are a handyman’s best options for organizing frequently used tools in the garage or van. It makes it easy for you to access the tools you use daily. This cuts down on wasted time you’d otherwise spend searching through drawers. Plus, it makes your space look sharp and professional when a client peeks inside.

34. Handyman Daily Tool Checklist

A daily tool checklist ensures you show up for work with all the tools you need. You can create a digital checklist via an app like Trello or stick a clipboard in your workshop. This makes sure you don’t leave essential handyman tools behind when heading for work. It also saves you the stress of rushing off to an emergency hardware store in the middle of a gig.

35. Work Vehicle

A reliable work vehicle does more than just transport you from job to job. It also doubles as a mobile workshop, carrying everything you need to tackle projects on the go. When choosing a work vehicle, look for a truck or van with sufficient cargo space for your lockboxes and stackable toolboxes.

It’s Not Just the Tools—It’s the Pro Behind Them

With the right gear, you’re working smarter, not harder. But even if you stock up on the best handyman apps and other tools on this list, it’s not enough on its own. How you use these tools makes all the difference.

You need to handle them with care, use them regularly, and keep improving your skillset. You also need to show up at your clients’ doorsteps with a solid work ethic that builds trust and makes them want to hire you again.

And don’t forget to dress professionally, work clean, and keep your setup organized. After all, you’re not just fixing things—you’re building a reputation.

Ready to take your handyman business to the next level? Join the more than 40,000 field service professionals who trust Housecall Pro to track and automate day-to-day processes and, ultimately, boost their bottom line.

Start your free trial today and see how easy it is to grow your business.

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