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What tools will I need to get?

6K views 41 replies 22 participants last post by  handreasonx 
#1 ·
I just started a property maintenance job.

I already have a multi-tester, circuit finder, outlet tester, and non-contact tester.

What else should I get?

Thanks.
 
#2 ·
Your various posts are kind of strange and seems like you have an abundance of energy and "cart before horse" thinking. Work under someone else for a while and it will become clear what tools you need, etc. It makes no sense to buy things without knowing if you'll even need them or what they're used for.

Good luck.
 
#3 ·
I am REALLY bad about putting the cart before the horse. I get too wound up and want to hit the ground running. Not to mention I buy tools like women buy shoes.

I have a ton of experience doing smaller maintenance jobs of various types, so I will not get much training. Just didn't want to immediately get into a situation where I couldn't make a repair because I was lacking some $10 tool.
 
#6 ·
Just didn't want to immediately get into a situation where I couldn't make a repair because I was lacking some $10 tool.
Go to Costco or Walmart and get one of those kits that cost anywhere between $60-$100 that has every screwdriver, wrench, socket set, etc. It's like the adult version of the Fisher Price "My First Tool Set". Most of the tools in that kit are crap but at least it will allow you to perform a couple of repairs before you realize that you need a better pair of pliers or decent screwdriver.

As others on here have said, you'll never know until you start fixing things and then you'll start building your collection. There's nothing wrong with telling the tenant, "I'll be back tomorrow." after you've assessed the situation and determined what tools/supplies you'll need to fix it.

But from my own personal experience, I'd agree with Warren and get a snake and plunger as stopped up toilets and sinks will probably happen more often than an electrical problem. Also get some 20-minute drywall mud, about 5 different size blades because you're going to fix many holes in the wall.
 
#7 ·
Go to Costco or Walmart and get one of those kits that cost anywhere between $60-$100 that has every screwdriver, wrench, socket set, etc. It's like the adult version of the Fisher Price "My First Tool Set".

OK, it seems like I haven't explained myself very well in today's posts. Including my trailer, I probably already own $10,000 worth of tools. And most of what I own is of the highest quality.

But, 90% of my experience (and tools) are for framing and trim carpentry. I did work for a plumber many years ago for a few months, but all of that was either rough in, or trim out. I'm guessing that most of what I'll be doing (other than clogged drains) will be repairing dripping faucets.

That's something I don't have any experience with.
 
#19 ·
Honestly, if you are not absolutely confident in what $10 tools, you may need, to do any kind of work ---- You shouldn't be doing that work.
posted 1 minute after you did.

Walk the Ilse at the Box stores. Go to local Plumbing/Electric/Roofing-Siding Supply houses. If you see a possible need in your venture ... buy the tool/s. Even if you don't buy, you will have a good idea of what is available, where to get it and hopefully have some advanced notice to get a specific tool before you do a job.
 
#18 ·
I think I have read every thread he has started now.

The responses get me and I laugh.
A maintenance tech doesn't need licenses to work on repairs to existing in NYS and with the exception of a few states like Cal, Fla and appears Oregon, to fix minor problems

I am a former framer that moved into the handyman business because of my age, which appears that the op is doing.
My advice to him is to relax and buy what you need as far as tools when you need them

Electrical is relatively easy. Go to HD and buy the commercial electric kit they sell for $69 and you should be set.
Plumbing a pair of slip joints, snake, basin wrench and you should be food to start.

if you are working for only one outfit, I bet they already have plenty of tools around which you can use.

I do not get into much beyond the simple fixes and suggest you do not either. I have on speed dial and electrician and a plumber to rescue me when i find it is beyond my capabilities and I suggest you do also. Do not be afraid to tell a client that you have to have an expert come in and have referrals that you can help your client with. In other words, the phone is your best friend.

I have been doing this for a number of years now and I have electrician and plumber both that will come when I call, most of the time within a couple of hours. Why you ask? Because they know I will not be wasting their time nd they have done multiple large jobs because of my referrals.
 
#20 ·
You can use these 2 lines:
- It was like that when I got here.
- it's better than before.

Another way of deterring stupidity away from yourself, is to blame everyone, but yourself. This includes, but is not limited to, other people, and existing work.

Jokes aside, if you have that many years in framing, there is probably not much you can't do, or figure out in basic handyman repairs.
 
#21 ·
I do tons of rental calls and manage 52 houses besides my remodeling business. Most rental calls I handle with just my basic kit that I throw in the truck...


I usually clip the CXS on the bottom just to have it in case. Obviously add any specialized stuff for the specific calls. But I find any time I leave behind this kit I regret it
 
#35 ·
I already have a multi-tester, circuit finder, outlet tester, and non-contact tester.
Mostly I run into blown fuses, dead switches, faulty breakers, appliance issues and fixtures that are shot. Basic tools that you already have will handle those issues. Having the right fuse, breaker, switch, GFI, wire nuts, etc. with you is big especially if you're working when suppliers are closed.

Diagnosing the problem safely, quickly and correctly is, of course, the challenge. A clamp meter is nice to have (e.g.https://www.homedepot.ca/en/home/p.acdc-clamp-meter.1000697642.html?autoSuggest=pip). Sometimes you just want to figure out whether you should call an electrician or the furnace guy.
 
#39 ·
Now, if you're really in a pinch. Say, the homeowner is freaking out because you've just missed what you were aiming for, and ended up smashing the toilet to rubble, (don't ask), what you can do is fake an injury. This gets you the heII out of there in a hurry. I usually pick up a branch from outside and bring it in. Time it perfectly that when you snap the branch in half, it sounds like an ankle breaking, and hit the ground like a pile of bricks. If you can get a ride to the hospital too, you're golden.
 
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