Your First Apartment Tool Kit

One of the major perks of renting? Your landlord is responsible for major repairs, updates, and improvements. Renters don’t need a garage full of tools, but a toolbox of essentials is something everyone should own.

Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or, like the 57% of renters who plan to continue renting when moving next year, it may be time for you to build your own toolkit. No more relying on neighbors to help fix a loose cabinet hinge or assemble a new piece of furniture. Having a few basic tools on hand can make settling in smoother and small repairs less stressful.

Tape measure

A tape measure is one of the most useful items in your toolbox. Bring it when you’re shopping for furniture to make sure pieces fit, or use it to measure windows for curtains and blinds, and measure walls for square footage when purchasing paint.

Utility knife

A utility knife is an all-star when it comes to moving in and out of your new place. Well-taped moving boxes are no match for its sharp edge. Paint on windows is gone in a flash with a gentle scrape of the blade. When scissors are buried in a box, a utility knife can fill in for just about any job.

Level

A small 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. No need for a heavy outdoor hammer, a small one will do the trick. You will likely use it to put together furniture, hang décor on the walls, or for DIY projects. 

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.

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 can be 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.

Adjustable wrench

Not to be confused with an Allen wrench, an adjustable wrench has a sliding jaw that can grip nuts and bolts of different sizes. It’s a go-to for tightening plumbing fixtures, assembling metal bed frames, or handling any hardware where a wrench is needed when you don’t know the exact size.

Compact multi-tool

A good multi-tool can replace several individual tools in a pinch. Most come with mini screwdrivers, scissors, pliers, and even a small knife — great for quick fixes or when you don’t want to dig through your full kit.

LED flashlight

Power outages happen, and corners of closets or under sinks are always dark. A small but powerful LED flashlight will help you see clearly during any kind of repair. Look for one with a magnetic base or hanging hook for hands-free use.

Extension cord

Even if you don’t use power tools often, an extension cord is essential for everyday living. Whether it’s plugging in a lamp, vacuum, or your drill on project day, having an extra cord on hand will always come in handy.

Sturdy step stool

When you’re trying to hang curtains, paint a high corner, or just reach the top shelf of a cabinet, a step stool is a must. Choose one that folds flat for storage but locks securely into place when in use.

Electric drill or 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? Are the holes in your self-assembled furniture not big enough for the screws? Electric drill to the rescue!

These basics should all fit in a portable toolbox. You can also use a five-gallon bucket from your local hardware store, if you prefer. There are even 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.

And while your tools can help you handle small fixes, it’s smart to have a safety net for the unexpected. Renters insurance can cover the cost of damaged or stolen belongings, liability, and even temporary living expenses if something goes wrong.