1. Screwdrivers (Flathead and Phillips)
Purpose: For assembling furniture, tightening screws, and general repairs.
Tip: A set with interchangeable heads is more versatile.
2. Hammer
Purpose: For driving nails into walls, hanging pictures, or light demolition work.
Type: A claw hammer (for pulling nails) is the most useful.
3. Tape Measure
Purpose: Measuring spaces, materials, and for accuracy in any job.
Length: A 5-metre tape measure should be sufficient for most jobs.
4. Spirit Level
Purpose: Ensuring shelves, frames, and furniture are level and properly aligned.
5. Adjustable Spanner/Wrench
Purpose: Useful for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts of various sizes.
6. Pliers (Needle-nose and Regular)
Purpose: Gripping, twisting wires, or cutting materials.
7. Electric Drill and Drill Bits
Purpose: For drilling holes in walls, wood, metal, or assembling flat-pack furniture.
Cordless: A cordless drill with interchangeable drill bits adds convenience.
8. Utility Knife (Stanley Knife)
Purpose: Cutting through tough materials like carpet, drywall, and cardboard.
9. Allen (Hex) Keys
Purpose: Often needed for assembling flat-pack furniture or bike repairs.
10. Stud Finder
Purpose: Detects wooden or metal studs in walls to avoid damaging electrical wires or pipes when drilling.
11. Chisels
Purpose: For woodwork, removing old paint, or tile grout.
12. Hand Saw
Purpose: Cutting wood, plastic piping, or other materials.
Type: A general-purpose handsaw is fine for most tasks.
13. Sandpaper or Sanding Block
Purpose: For smoothing rough surfaces, prepping walls for painting, or refinishing furniture.
14. Caulking Gun
Purpose: Applying silicone or caulk for sealing windows, bathtubs, and sinks.
15. Safety Gear
Purpose: Protect yourself with safety glasses, work gloves, and a dust mask when needed.
16. Ladders
Purpose: A step ladder or extension ladder for reaching high places like ceilings and walls.
17. Wire Cutters and Strippers
Purpose: For any minor electrical work around the house.
18. Multi-tool (Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman)
Purpose: Handy for quick fixes and small tasks where you don’t want to dig out your full tool kit.
These tools will cover most tasks such as assembling furniture, hanging pictures, light plumbing or electrical repairs, and general maintenance.