Starting a small-scale handyman service might be a wonderful option if you are a “jack of all trades” contractor. A basic understanding of woodwork, wiring, plumbing, and other general maintenance skills can be the start of a small business helping others with basic home repairs and small-to-medium projects around the house and yard. You may start it as a part-time job at first, and once you’ve built up a strong clientele, you can turn it into a full-time business.
However, having basic building abilities is not the sole prerequisite for launching a handyman service. To provide handyman services, you must have at least a basic range of tools. These will include the physical tools you need to perform different types of jobs, but also those that help you promote and protect your business.
Why you should invest in high-quality tools
Your tools will most likely make up most of your initial business expenses when establishing a handyman business, provided you don’t already own them. Investing in high-quality tools can help ensure that they last longer and are more effective. This may be especially true when it comes to tools that will be used on almost every project and precise instruments, like levels and other measurement devices.
However, “quality” doesn’t always have to mean “new”. You might buy some second-hand tools to save money. A used truck, second-hand ladders, and other gear like this can still be durable and may save you hundreds of dollars setup expenses.
Another strategy to cut initial expenses is to acquire tools just as you need them. As your company grows, you can invest in new tools as you take on different types of projects.
A Toolkit for Starting a Handyman Business
Let’s cover some of the essential tools and equipment for starting a small-scale handyman company. Here’s the rundown:
1. Basic Handheld Tools
All handymen need a well-stocked toolbox. This includes basic domestic tools, such as:
- screwdrivers
- files
- wrenches
- paint scrapers
- hammer
- pliers
- wire nuts
- nails
- tin snips
- screws
- plasterboard inserts
- chisels
- vice grips
You may also need some job-specific tools. For instance, if you will be offering painting services, you will need brushes and painter’s tape. For plumbing, you will need pipe cutters, gasket cutters, plungers, and pipe tapping tools.
To make sure your toolbox is properly stocked, it may help to list the services you plan to offer. Then, list the tools you will need to do each job right to determine what you already own and which tools you need to invest in.
2. Power Tools
In addition to the basic tools, you’ll also need some basic power tools. These make jobs easier and faster, which may help your business turn a profit sooner. Some power tools you may need, include:
- Cordless drill
- Circular saw
- Chainsaw
- Grinders
- Nail gun
- Power sander
You may need to buy some of these tools right away, but others could be added as your business grows.
3. Ladders
Ladders are essential tools for handymen. You’ll likely be completing some jobs that require height, such as painting, replacing roof shingles, or cleaning gutters. The most typical ladders for handymen are 4’ and 8’ step ladders, as well as a 20’ extension ladder.
4. Gardening and lawn tools
If you plan to provide any type of gardening or landscaping services, you’ll need some lawn equipment. A lawnmower, weed whacker, shovel, rake, and posthole digger are examples of the basic gardening tools you’ll likely need.
5. Safety equipment
Safety is important anytime you’re working with hand or power tools. Basic safety equipment can help you avoid injuries while you work. This includes a tool belt, safety goggles, ear plugs, dust masks, knee pads, and latex gloves.
6. Tool storage
Keeping your tools safe and in working order can help you avoid needing to repair or replace them. Good tool storage can keep your equipment clean and accessible for when you need it. A tool cabinet with many drawers to store your hand tools, nails, and other equipment can help you organize and keep track of everything. Some type of covered plastic storage container will also be helpful to transport spare pieces and other components you may use on projects.
7. Cleaning supplies
Leaving your customers’ homes clean and tidy is an important part of every handyman job you take. You may consider a broom, cordless vacuum, mops, cleaning soaps and gels, and other basic cleaning supplies as part of your toolset.
8. Marketing and sales tools
Self-promotion is part of owning any business. As a handyman, you should carry a few marketing “tools” with you to each job. Business cards can be easily shared with customers to remind them of your contact details and for them to pass on to family and friends in need of your services. Lawn signs can be placed on a customer’s property (with their permission) to create brand recognition. Even shirts with your logo can help add to your professionalism and promote your handyman business.
9. Business insurance
Owning a small business comes with certain risks. Customer injuries and damaging a client’s property are common accidents that can happen to handymen when they work in other people’s homes. You could also lose your tools or have them stolen. The cost of compensating a client or replacing your equipment could potentially set your business back thousands of dollars, which may be unaffordable for you.
Business insurance, like General Liability or tool coverage, can help protect you against these types of expenses. Instead of paying out of pocket to replace a customer’s belongings, your insurance policy will do this for you.
We hope this article has given you a better idea of what you’ll need to get started as a handyman. Because your talent is always in great demand, the final piece of the jigsaw is acquiring the necessary equipment to get started.
Ready to protect your handyman business with insurance? BizInsure can help. Visit our website to learn more about insurance for handymen and compare quotes now.
