Even if you have a maintenance man, you’ll need some tools around your rental for everyday projects. One of the major perks of renting? Your landlord is responsible for major repairs, updates and improvements. Renters won’t need a full garage full of tools, but a complete toolbox is something everyone should own. Any renter worth their security deposit will have these basic tools handy for small projects and minor repairs.
Tools for Renters
Tape measure: One of the most valuable items in your toolbox. Bring it with you when shopping for furniture to make sure pieces will fit, measure windows for curtains and blinds, and calculate walls for square footage when purchasing paint.
Utility knife: A utility knife is an all-star for moving in and out of your new place. Well-taped moving boxes are no match for their sharp edge. The paint on windows from previous paint jobs is gone with a gentle blade scrape. When scissors are buried in a box, a utility knife can fill in for almost any job.
Level: A trim level, even a keychain-sized one, will be your best friend when hanging art on your walls, installing curtain rods, or simply checking to see if your door frame is crooked.
Hammer: Of course, a hammer is a necessity for any toolbox. A small one will do the trick, no need for a heavy outdoor hammer. You will most likely be using it to put together furniture, hang décor on the walls, or for DIY projects. Rookie tip: make sure it fits in your toolbox of choice.
Screwdriver set: At least one Philips and one flat-head screwdriver are necessary for many small repair jobs. Having a full set that offers many sizes is even better, allowing you to do everything from fix off-kilter cabinet doors to install wall hooks.
Smaller yet Important ones
Nails, screws and anchors: Keep a small plastic box with a selection of nails and screws in your toolbox. You never know when you’ll need to replace a screw on a door handle or add an extra nail to hang that large mirror. Anchors are necessary for hanging anything heavy or on plaster walls. Keep the packaging for these, as it will tell you what size to drill the hole for installation.
Allen/hex wrench set: Most furniture that comes in a box will use an Allen wrench for assembly. Allen and hex wrenches (also sometimes called keys) are the same tool. The small one that comes in the box with your furniture is sub-par. Having your own set will help you put together furniture in a snap. Don’t forget to tighten Allen bolts periodically to keep your furniture secure. Bonus: they’re also useful for bicycle repairs!
Electric drill/screwdriver: An electric drill and screwdriver with a set of drill bits and screwdriver heads will make nearly all repair jobs easier. Drilling holes for new drawer pulls in furniture? Need to install a heavy mirror on a plaster wall with an anchor? The holes in your self-assemble furniture not big enough for the screws? Electric drill to the rescue!
These basics should all fit in a portable plastic or metal toolbox. You can also use a five-gallon bucket it you prefer; there are bucket inserts that include pockets for your tools to make them easy to find. Tuck the kit on the bottom shelf of a closet or under a sink and you’ll be prepared for any job.