Hello again,
We just finished up a 7 part series outlining the steps to take when you want to start a handyman business. Today I would like to talk about what type of tools do you really need to start a handyman business?
The tools that you will need will vary somewhat depending on the type of handyman work you will be doing. There are basic tools that everyone who start a handyman business will need to have. Some of these include: hammer, screwdrivers, tape measure, crescent wrench (small, medium, and large), channel-lock pliers, utility knife, regular pliers, needle nose pliers, extension cord, saw horses, level, crowbars. This is not an exclusive list, but it gives you a good start.
I would also suggest that you invest is a good cordless power tool combination kit. When doing smaller jobs, these tools will be much easier to use and carry with you, rather than a corded tools. You will want to look for a kit that includes a drill, reciprocating saw, circular say and maybe a flashlight. This kit will cost some money, however having the correct tools is essential for your handyman business.
You will also want to have a small ladder, something around 4 foot. You do not want to have to borrow a ladder from your customer. You may also want to have a camera, calculator and estimates sheets with you at all times. You never know when you will be on the job and a customer will ask for a price to do more work for them. Always be prepared to give an estimate.
Why would you want to have a camera with you? If your customers give you permission, taking before and after pictures of jobs is always a good ideal. You can then use those pictures to show other potential customers. Pictures will also help you possibly remember things when you are doing estimates such as replacing kitchen cabinets.
There are some specialty tools that you may want to pick up. Such tools may include, electrical tester, wire strippers, a 10" portable table saw, sliding compound miter saw, portable belt sander, and possibly a set wrecking bars. These are tools that you may not need when you first start your handyman business, however they maybe items you want to add to your tool arsenal as times go on you and you are ask to take on different types of jobs.
One thing you want to be careful of is not to get caught up in all the fancy gadgets that are available. It is easy to go into a hardware store and see all the cool tools that there is and want to purchase the latest and greatest gadget. Ask yourself these basic questions before you make a purchase: Will this new tool be needed in the next couple of weeks? Will this new tool really assist me in doing a job, better or more efficiently? Will I use this tool more than once? Can I rent this tool if I will only be using it once in the next several months? Will this tool help me expand the services I offer. If the answer is yes to most of these questions, then making the purchase maybe warranted.
Remember, when you start your handyman business you want to make sure you have the tools you need to do the jobs you will be doing, however, you do not want to being buying tools that you do not really need.
Until next time.