Handyman Tools List: Essential Tools for Handyman Work

Handyman work is all about tackling a variety of tasks around your customers’ homes—fixing plumbing emergencies, assembling furniture, or knocking out a quick paint job. To handle it all, you need a well-equipped tool bag so you’re ready for anything.

Whether you’re launching a new business or upgrading your equipment, having a complete handyman tools list helps ensure you’re prepared for the most common repair, installation, and maintenance jobs that come your way.

We’ve compiled a handyman tool list for your most common types of jobs, including average prices for each. When you’re ready to shop, download this handyman tools list PDF to keep track of what you’ve purchased and what you still need.

Match tools to the services you offer

Start by identifying the types of jobs you perform most often. For example:

• General repairs require a drill/driver, hand tools, levels, and measuring tools.
• Electrical and plumbing work often requires specialized testers, pipe wrenches, and cutting tools.
• Carpentry projects benefit from circular saws, miter saws, clamps, and nailers.
• Exterior services may require ladders, pressure washers, and landscaping tools.

Instead of buying every tool at once, create a handyman services list and prioritize the equipment that supports your most profitable and frequently requested services.

READ MORE: How to price handyman jobs

Build a starter kit before a full shop

Many new handymen make the mistake of purchasing a complete workshop before they have enough work to justify the expense. A better approach is to build your tool collection as you book jobs.

A starter kit should include:

• A cordless drill
• Screwdriver set
• Impact driver
• Measuring tools
• Safety equipment

These tools can handle a wide range of common repair and maintenance tasks.

As your business grows, reinvest profits into specialized equipment for higher-paying services. This approach reduces upfront costs while ensuring every new tool contributes directly to revenue.

Used tool and rentals

Not every tool needs to be purchased brand new. High-quality used tools can provide excellent value, especially for larger equipment that sees occasional use.

When comparing brands, consider three general tiers:

• Budget brands for infrequent use and basic household repairs
• Mid-range professional brands for daily handyman work
• Premium contractor-grade brands for heavy use and demanding job sites

For tools you only use a few times per year, renting is often the smarter financial decision. You can rent equipment such as pressure washers, tile saws, floor sanders, concrete drills, and specialty demolition tools as needed without tying up capital or storage space.

Consider tool storage

Good organization saves time and helps you appear more professional on the job site. Common storage solutions include:

• Tool belts for carrying frequently used hand tools
• Tool buckets and organizers for service calls and small repair jobs
• Rolling toolboxes for transporting power tools and accessories
• Shelving systems and drawer units for workshop organization
• Truck or van storage systems with dedicated compartments for tools, hardware, and materials

Group tools by task whenever possible. When you keep electrical, plumbing, painting, and carpentry tools organized separately, it’s easier to find what you need and reduce setup time between jobs.

A well-organized tool system can be just as valuable as the tools themselves, helping you work faster and maintain a professional image with customers.

15 essential tools every new handyman needs

Before accepting your first paid job, make sure you have these core tools:

1. Claw hammer for driving and removing nails and general repairs
2. Cordless drill/driver for tools for installation and assembly work
3. Driver bit set, including Phillips, flathead, square, and specialty bits
4. Tape measure at least 25 feet in length, which is suitable for most household projects
5. Utility knife for cutting drywall, caulk, packaging, flooring materials, and more
6. Slip-joint or tongue-and-groove pliers for plumbing repairs and gripping tasks
7. Needle-nose pliers for electrical work, small fasteners, and tight spaces
8. Adjustable wrench for nuts, bolts, and plumbing fixtures
9. Screwdriver set for repairs, installations, and troubleshooting
10. Level (24 inches) for hanging shelves, pictures, and fixtures
11. Flashlight or headlamp for working in dark spaces, basements, attics, and utility rooms
12. Stud finder to help locate framing members for secure mounting and installation
13. Caulk gun for sealing gaps around windows, doors, tubs, and trim.
14. Safety glasses and work gloves for protection on nearly every job
15. Tool bag or bucket organizer to keep essential tools organized and easy to transport

With these tools, you will become a handyman who can confidently handle many of the most common residential service calls.

Starter budget range

The cost of a handyman starter toolkit can vary significantly depending on the brands you choose and whether you purchase new or used equipment. As a general guideline, you can expect to spend these ranges, depending on the brands you buy:

• Budget starter kit: $200–$500
• Mid-range professional starter kit: $500–$1,200
• Premium contractor-grade starter kit: $1,200–$2,500+

Many successful handymen begin with a budget or mid-range setup and upgrade tools as their business grows. Prioritize quality for tools you’ll use every day—especially your drill, measuring tools, hand tools, and safety equipment.

1. Utility knife ($5–$50)

A utility or razor knife lets you cut cables, wire insulation, and other materials neatly for all kinds of repairs and installs. Use it to open materials, trim drywall, cut caulk, score flooring, strip wire insulation, and make quick cuts on nearly every job.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Amazon Basics Folding Knife)
• Home Depot (Milwaukee General Purpose)

2. Hammer ($10–$30)

Find a lightweight claw hammer with a comfortable grip, and keep it handy for assembly jobs and repairs. Use it to hang pictures, assemble furniture, drive or remove nails, repair trim, and tackle basic carpentry and woodworking projects.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Claw Hammer with Fiberglass)
• Home Depot (Husky Steel Rip Claw Hammer)

3. Screwdriver set ($10–$30)

Purchase a screwdriver set with a flat head, square tip, and Phillips driver heads. These will help you install and change plumbing fixtures, control panels, switch plates, and appliance parts. You can also use it to install hardware and assemble furniture.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Rotation, 6-Piece Magnetic)
• Home Depot (Wiha 7-Piece Soft Insulated Set)

4. Pliers or plier set ($15–$45)

Needle-nose pliers and channel lock pliers are useful for gripping, bending, and cutting materials. Slip-joint pliers have adjustable jaws that help you grip objects of various sizes. Use it to grip pipes, bend wire, hold fasteners, pull nails, and make minor repairs.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Amazon Basics Pliers Set)
• Walmart (WORKPRO 4″ Mini Adjustable Pliers Wrench)

5. Tape measure ($5–$25)

Use a tape measure to take precise measurements of spaces and equipment for installation and replacement jobs. Use it to measure spaces for shelves, verify appliance dimensions, lay out projects, and ensure accurate installations.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (Milwaukee 25 ft.)
• Walmart (Hyper Tough Self-Lock Tape)

6. Adjustable wrench ($15–$45)

A wrench with a movable jaw lets you torque nuts and bolts of various sizes. Use it to tighten plumbing connections, assemble equipment, adjust bolts, and handle repairs where multiple wrench sizes would otherwise be needed.

Buying options:

• Amazon (3-piece Adjustable Metal Set)
• Walmart (HART 12 in. Pro Adjustable Wrench)

7. Stud finder ($10–$30)

By detecting changes in the density of a wall, stud finders help you locate framing studs so you can securely mount shelves, cabinets, or TVs. Use it for any job that requires anchoring into wall framing.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (RYOBI Whole Stud Finder)
• Walmart (HART Basic LED Electric Finder)

8. Staple gun ($25–$35)

Handymen use staple guns as an alternative to nails or screws. Use it to repair screens, secure insulation, fasten fabric or upholstery, install house wrap, and handle light-duty fastening tasks.

Buying options:

• Lowe’s (Arrow T50 Manual)
• Harbor Freight Tools (Three-Way Tacker)

9. Brad nailer ($25–$100)

A brad nailer allows for precision fastening on lightweight projects like attaching trim, molding, or decorative panels, as well as other finish carpentry projects. Small brads provide a secure hold without splitting wood or leaving large holes.

Buying options:

• Amazon (WORKPRO Pneumatic Nailer)
• Home Depot (RYOBI One+ 18V Cordless Nailer)

10. Chisel ($5–$20)

Use a chisel for tasks that require precise shaping and carving, such as removing material from stone or trimming sections of wood. A chisel also creates clean edges by scraping off unwanted material, making it invaluable for detail work.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (Economy 3-Piece Set)
• Lowe’s (IRWIN 0.5 in. Cold Chisel)

11. Mini LED flashlight ($2–20)

Use a mini LED flashlight to illuminate tight, dark spaces like under sinks, behind appliances, and in attics or crawl spaces. It’s also useful when troubleshooting electrical or plumbing issues to ensure precision and safety.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Everbrite 6-pack Flashlight Set)
• Lowe’s (Extra Bright LED 51 Uv Blacklight)

12. Angle grinder ($40–$100)

An angle grinder is useful for cutting, grinding, and polishing different materials like metal, tile, and concrete, making it an essential handyman tool for versatile and efficient project work. Use it to cut metal, remove rust, trim bolts, grind masonry, and sharpen tools.

Buying options:

• Amazon (DEWALT One-Touch)
• Home Depot (Milwaukee 18V)

13. Cordless drill and drill bits ($40–$120)

You’ll use a drill on nearly every job to create holes, bore, fasten, and more. It’s essential for everything from assembling furniture and hanging fixtures to drilling pilot holes and driving screws. Look for a drill with adjustable torque and speed settings.

Buying options:

• Amazon (AVID Power 20V Drill and Bits)
• Lowe’s (Craftsman V20 Combo Drill Kit and Bag)

14. Impact driver ($50–$180)

Impact drivers provide higher torque than drills, which help you drive screws efficiently without stripping screw heads. Use it when installing decks, framing, cabinets, fences, lag bolts, or long screws—any job that requires extra driving power and speed.

Buying options:

• Lowe’s (Craftsman 20V Max)
• Amazon (DeWalt 20V Max Impact Driver)

15. Power saws ($30–$130 each)

Use a reciprocating saw, circular saw, or jigsaw to create detailed cutouts in panels or drywall. You can also use a circular saw for long, straight lines and a hole saw to make round holes.

Buying options:

• Amazon (DEWALT Max Circular Pro)
• Home Depot (RYOBI One+ 18V Reciprocating Tool)

16. Heat gun ($25–$60)

Heat guns provide controlled heat to help you shrink or manipulate materials and make secure, insulated connections. Use it to remove paint, soften caulk, loosen stubborn fasteners, or bend and shape plastic materials during repairs.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Romech 350W Heat Gun and Nozzles)
• Lowe’s (Wagner Furno Heat Gun)

17. Power sander ($60–$95)

Power sanders help achieve a smooth finish when you’re refinishing furniture, decks, or other wooden materials. Use it to prep surfaces before painting or staining, smooth patched drywall, and remove old finishes for a professional-looking result.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (RYOBI One+ Random Orbit Sander)
• Amazon (SKIL 5” Random Orbital Sander)

18. Vacuum ($20–$120)

Any good handyman needs a portable vacuum to quickly clean up dust, debris, and small messes on job sites. This ensures a tidy workspace when you’re done, which your customers will appreciate.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Craftsman Wet/Dry Shop Vac)
• Walmart (WORKPRO Wet Dry Vacuum)

READ MORE: 12 must-have handyman apps for busy contractors

Plumbing tools

These pipework tools, wrenches, and declogging tools are essential for plumbing work. If you plan to provide minor plumbing services to your clients, you’ll need plumbing tools like:

19. Pipe cutters, including plastic ($12–50), copper ($15–60), and steel cutters ($25–75)

Different types of pipe cutters help achieve smooth, precise cuts when working with various types of plumbing pipes. Use pipe cutters when repairing or replacing plumbing lines, installing new fixtures, or cutting PVC, copper, or steel pipe to length for clean, leak-free connections.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Heavy Duty Tube and Pipe Cutter Set)
• Walmart (Tube Cutter Set)

20. Pipe wrench ($20–$60)

A pipe wrench comes in handy when gripping, loosening, or tightening threaded pipes or fittings. Use it on water lines, shutoff valves, and stubborn or rusted connections during repairs or installations.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Adjustable Set Pipe Wrenches, 6-10 Inches)
• Walmart (Performance Tool W1133-18B 18 In. Pipe Wrench)

21. Basin wrench ($15–$50)

Designed for super-tight spaces, a basin wrench makes adjusting or removing nuts much easier. Use a basin wrench when working under sinks to loosen or tighten faucet mounting nuts in spaces where standard wrenches or pliers won’t fit.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (Husky Basin Wrench)
• Amazon (Duratech 11 in. Adjustable Basin Wrench)

22. Faucet seat wrench ($5–$30)

Rely on this handy tool for removing, repairing, or replacing worn faucet seats. It’s essential for dealing with faulty seats that are causing drips or water flow issues.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Faucet Seat Wrench and Removal Tool)
• Walmart (6-piece sink wrench set)

23. Plungers ($5–$20)

This one is a common household tool. Plungers make it easier to clear clogs in toilets, sinks, or drains by using pressure and suction to restore normal water flow.

Buying options:

• Walmart (Rubber Toilet Plunger)
• Amazon (Clorox Toilet Plunger)

24. Plumber’s snake ($10–$25)

Use a plumber’s snake to tackle blockages deeper in pipes where a plunger won’t reach. It’s especially helpful when a drain is clogged with loose hair.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Amazon Basics Drain Clog Remover)
• Home Depot (FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Starter Kit)

READ MORE: 40 best plumbing tools for all jobs

Appliance repair tools

Appliance repair jobs can have you fixing washers and dryers, refrigerators, ovens, and more. Be prepared for any task by picking up these tools for appliance repair:

25. Rubber mallet ($4–$10)

Rubber mallets are gentle but powerful. They’re perfect for tapping objects into place without causing damage to a surface or item.

Buying options:

• Amazon (8 oz. Rubber Mallet Hammer)
• Lowe’s (Kobalt Smooth Face Fiberglass and Rubber)

26. Nut driver set ($12–$30)

This set is great for tightening or loosening small nuts in appliances and fixtures. Having a complete set ensures that you’ll have the right-sized option for the job, no matter what you’re repairing.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Folding Nut Driver Set)
• Home Depot (Milwaukee SAE Hollow Set)

27. Belt tension gauge ($20–$40)

A tension gauge is especially practical when it comes to appliance maintenance, since many machines (like dryers and refrigerators) drive power with belts. This gauge might also be useful for repairing exercise equipment.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Adjustable 10 lbs. Gauge)
• Amazon (Hromee Belt Tension Gauge)

28. Tub nut wrench ($15–$20)

This type of wrench is specifically designed for removing and installing drain nuts in bathtubs, especially in tight spaces where standard wrenches can’t properly grip or turn the drain nut.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Tub Drain Remover Wrench)
• Home Depot (HUSKY 3-way Plumber’s Wrench)

29. Temperature probe ($20–$35)

Appliance temperature probes offer a quick way to check appliance temperatures for diagnosing problems and common errors. Use it for ovens, refrigerators, or water heaters to verify if equipment is heating or cooling within the correct operating range.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Temperature Sensor Probe, Extension Cable)
• Walmart (Taylor TruTemp Digital Instant Read Thermometer)

30. Gas leak detector ($30–$120)

When it comes to breathable gas or harmful fumes, it’s important to work safely. This tool helps identify gas leaks during repairs or inspections so that you can clear the space if needed.

Buying options:

• Lowe’s (Klein Tools Combustible Gas Leak Detector)
• Amazon (PT520A Natural Gas Detector)

Painting tools

Whether you need a fresh coat of paint for a wall or want to do a few touch-ups, basic paint supplies can help you finish each handyman job neatly and professionally. Carry these essential pieces of painting equipment for residential paint jobs:

31. Painter’s multi-tool ($8–$20)

From scraping rough paint spots to opening cans, this versatile tool helps pro painters and handymen alike. Use a painter’s multi-tool when patching small wall imperfections, applying or smoothing filler, and handling a range of quick prep and cleanup tasks on painting jobs.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Amazon Basics 14-in-1 Versatile Tool)
• Home Depot (HUSKY 15-in-1 Tool)

32. Masking tape ($1–$6 per roll)

Keep edges clean and protect surfaces by using this tape while painting. Painter’s tape peels off gently without damaging fresh coats. Use masking tape for trim or cabinets to protect clean edges, mask off surfaces, and prevent paint bleed for crisp, professional-looking finishes.

Buying options:

• Walmart (Bulk 10-Pack Painter’s Tape)
• Amazon (Scotch Greener Masking Tape)

33. Manual caulk gun ($5–$30)

This metal or plastic tool is perfect for applying caulk neatly to seal gaps and cracks. Use a manual caulk gun when sealing gaps around windows, doors, tubs, sinks, and trim to prevent drafts, water leaks, and create a clean finished edge.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Edward Tools Smooth Caulking Gun)
• Home Depot (Anvil Drip Free Gun)

34. Patching knife or putty knife ($7–$15)

Reach for your putty knife when you’re patching walls, smoothing spackle, filling holes or cracks, or scraping away old paint or putty from trim or door jambs. It’s an essential tool during surface prep and repair work.

Buying options:

• Amazon (6” Putty Knife)
• Lowe’s (Set of Plastic Taping Knives)

35. Drywall tape knife ($8–$15)

This is the best tool for applying and smoothing out drywall tape, which holds newly applied sections of drywall in place. Use it to create a flat, seamless surface that’s ready for sanding and painting.

Buying options:

• Amazon (9-in-1 Drywall Paint Scraper)
• Walmart (Putty Knife Scraper Set)

36. Brushes ($5–$25 each)

A good set of brushes can help with detail work or reaching areas that standard paint rollers can’t cover. These can also be used to apply stain, varnish, or protective coating.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (Utility Polyester Flat Brush)
• Lowe’s (Natural Bristle Chip Brush)

37. Paint rollers and covers ($20–$45)

Use these to quickly and efficiently cover larger areas (like entire walls) with a fresh coat of paint. They’re also great for ceilings and doors to apply even coats quickly and efficiently compared to brushes.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Pro Grade 10-Piece Painting Set)
• Walmart (AEASKIEY 8ft Paint Roller Kit)

38. Paint tray ($3–$6)

Disposable (or metal) paint trays offer a simple but effective way to hold paint and reduce splatter. Use a paint tray when loading rollers with paint for walls, ceilings, or trim projects, helping control paint pickup, reduce mess, and ensure even application.

Buying options:

• Walmart (Solvent-Resistant Reusable Metal Tray)
• Home Depot (Plastic Tray for Mini Rollers)

Electrical work tools

Add these basic electrician tools to your handyman tool kit so you’re equipped for electrical repairs:

39. Wire stripper ($10–$50)

This tool allows you to precisely and safely remove insulation from electrical wires without damaging the wire itself, making it a top choice for installation or repair.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Self-Adjusting Wire Stripper Set)
• Walmart (5-in-1 professional multifunctional wire stripper/crimping tool)

40. Wire crimper ($20–$35)

This tool securely crimps connectors onto wires. Crimping makes sure that you have professional-grade connections for electrical installations and repairs, which helps reduce risks.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (Large Crimping Tool with Compound Action)
• Amazon (Plustool Crimping Tool)

41. Coaxial cable crimper ($20–$50)

Use a cable crimper to carefully attach connectors to coaxial cables, creating strong connections for audio, video, or internet systems.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (9 in. Compact Compression Crimper)
• Lowe’s (Belden Tools Coax Crimper Install Set)

42. Multimeter ($30–$40)

A multimeter measures voltage, current, and resistance. This specialty tool is useful for pinpointing electrical problems and verifying which circuits are running smoothly.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Digital Clamp Multimeter)
• Walmart (Kuaiqu KM61B Digital Multimeter)

43. Voltage tester ($20–$35)

Use a voltage tester before touching or working on any electrical outlet, switch, or wire. It’ll help you safely and quickly determine if an electrical wire or outlet is live, preventing accidents during repairs.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Non-Contact Tester, 3 Ranges)
• Home Depot (Klein Tools Tester Pen)

44. Fish tape ($15–$75)

This tool simplifies pulling wires through walls, ceilings, or conduit, even in tight or hidden spaces. Use fish tape when running new electrical wiring, especially in obstructed spaces where you need to guide wire between access points.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Flat Steel Fish Tape, 25 ft.)
• Home Depot (High Flex Polyester Fish Tape, 75 ft.)

Pro Tip: In many U.S. states, you need an electrician’s license before you complete any electrical work legally. Check out our electrician licensing guide to double-check if you need certification in your state.

45. Tool belt ($30–$60)

To keep all your tools in arm’s reach while you work, purchase a tool belt you can comfortably wear throughout the day.

Buying options:

• Amazon (27 Pocket Tool Belt, Heavy Duty and Adjustable)
• Walmart (19 Pocket Brown and Black Heavy Duty Construction Tool Belt)

46. Portable toolbox ($25–$150)

Get a rolling toolbox—or one with a handle—to keep your tools organized and accessible on the go. Use a portable toolbox when transporting your essential tools between job sites, keeping everything easy to carry during service calls.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Heavy Duty Tool Bag)
• Home Depot (TEKTON Stacking Tool Box)

47. Extension cords ($20–$35)

Extension cords let you work on outdoor projects without being tethered to a nearby outlet. Use extension cords when working in areas without nearby power sources, such as outdoor repairs, garages, or large indoor spaces where you need to run power tools or lighting.

Buying options:

• Home Depot (15 ft., Light Duty Indoor/Outdoor)
• Amazon (Amazon Basics Extension Cord)

48. Step ladder ($25–$45)

A basic step ladder will help you paint, replace light fixtures, and complete repairs in hard-to-reach places. Use it when reaching ceilings, high walls, light fixtures, cabinets, or other elevated areas during painting, installation, or repair work where safe elevation is required.

Buying options:

• Amazon (2-Step Cushioned Ladder)
• Home Depot (6 ft. Fiberglass Ladder)

49. Duct tape ($3–$8 per roll)

This tape is a must-have for both quick fixes and longer-term repairs. Use duct tape when patching holes, sealing leaks or gaps, securing loose materials, or patching damaged surfaces until a permanent fix can be completed.

Buying options:

• Walmart (3-Pack Black Duct Tape)
• Home Depot (30-Yard Gorilla Tape)

50. Wood glue and superglue ($4–$10 per bottle)

Apply wood glue to joints or cracks when completing deck or furniture repairs. Superglue comes in handy for assembling small components or stopping a fray from unraveling.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Super Glue for Wood, High Strength)
• Walmart (Elmer’s Carpenter’s Wood Glue)

Fasteners and consumables to keep in your van

Many handyman jobs involve replacing a missing screw, mounting hardware, patching a wall, or securing a loose fixture. Keeping common fasteners and repair materials in your van can help you complete more jobs in a single visit and avoid extra trips to the hardware store.

Consider stocking:

• Assorted screws (wood, drywall, machine, etc)
• Picture-hanging hardware
• Wall anchors and toggle bolts
• Nails
• Electrical tape
• Zip ties in various sizes
• Caulk and silicone sealant
• Spackle
• Sandpaper
• Painter’s tape
• Extra batteries for flashlights and small tools

Store these supplies neatly in labeled bins, drawer systems, or compartment organizers so they’re easy to find on the job site.

51. Goggles ($10–$25)

Safety goggles are a must-have to protect your eyes. Wear eye protection whenever you’re drilling, grinding, cutting, sanding, using chemicals, or performing any task where debris or liquids could enter your eyes.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Anti-Fog Protective Goggles)
• Home Depot (Milwaukee Anti-Scratch Glasses)

52. Earplugs ($0.50–$20)

Earplugs are a small investment for your long-term health. Use hearing protection when operating loud tools such as circular saws, reciprocating saws, angle grinders, impact drivers, nail guns, compressors, pressure washers, or other high-noise equipment.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Amazon Basics Foam, 100 Count)
• Walmart (Mighty Plugs Beeswax Ear Plugs)

53. Respirator ($15–$45)

Respirators or gas masks protect you from dust, fumes, and other hazardous airborne particles. Wear one when sanding drywall or wood, cutting materials that create dust, painting, staining, spraying finishes, cleaning mold, or working with solvents, adhesives, and other chemicals.

Buying options:

• Amazon (3M Half Facepiece Respirator)
• Home Depot (N95 Sanding and Fiberglass, Disposable)

54. Knee pads ($20–$40)

Handiwork can keep you on your knees for long periods. Knee pads help soften the pressure and save you from serious joint issues down the road. Use them during flooring installation, tile work, plumbing repairs, painting, and any job that requires prolonged kneeling.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Professional Grade Gel Knee Pads)
• Walmart (Men/Women Knee Pads)

55. Gloves ($7–$25)

Pick a heavy-duty work glove to protect your hands from cuts and burns, or nitrile gloves for cleaning agents and other chemicals. Wear work gloves when handling rough materials, lumber, sheet metal, tools, or demolition debris.

Buying options:

• Amazon (Utility Work Gloves)
• Walmart (KAYGO Safety Work Gloves)

READ MORE: Plumbing safety hazards: tips to stay safe on the job

56. Handyman invoice generator

Jobber’s free handyman invoice generator lets you create and download a professional invoice that you can send to your customers in minutes.

Simply add your company and client information, job details, and pricing, then download your invoice as a PDF that’s easy to send to clients.

Use Jobber’s invoice template to include all the necessary information—and look more professional than you would with handwritten invoices.

Think of your invoice generator as a business tool that’s just as important as your wrench set. Once the work is finished, your invoice is the tool that helps you get paid.

Or try using field service invoicing software to convert job details into invoices, send multiple invoices at once with batch invoicing, and automatically follow up with customers on overdue payments.

57. Accounting software

Accounting software is essential for managing expenses, payments, payroll, and all your finance work. QuickBooks Online helps you track and manage:

• Payments from clients
• Payroll to contractors or employees
• Costs related to home repairs and handyman services, like gas, materials, or parts
• Expense receipts to prepare for tax season and claim tax deductions

In the same way your tape measure helps you track dimensions, accounting software helps you track the numbers that determine whether your business is profitable.

Plus, QuickBooks integrates with Jobber so you can keep your customer, invoice, and payment information accurate without any double-entry.

58. Handyman business software

Every job follows a process: quote the work, book the job, complete the job, and send the invoice. Business software gives you a complete toolkit for managing that workflow from start to finish.

Handyman business software like Jobber helps you create quotes, schedule service calls, invoice, and collect payments, whether you’re in the office or on the job site.

Jobber also sends automatic quote follow-up emails to remind clients and help secure upcoming work. You can also access estimates and details about your client’s job or project, all in one convenient place.

Once the job is complete, send an invoice and collect payments quickly and digitally. You’ll get paid faster and impress your customers with a convenient, professional experience.

Get the tools you need to succeed

Just as the right tool helps you finish a project efficiently, the right business software helps you move customers smoothly from quote to job to invoice to payment. Together, they keep your handyman business organized, professional, and profitable.

Ready to take the next steps? Check out our guide to the best handyman business apps.

Originally published in January 2025. Last updated on June 30, 2026.