How to Build a Maintenance Toolkit for Everyday Fixes

Renting a single-family home comes with a unique blend of freedom and responsibility. While major repairs are typically handled by your property manager, everyday fixes, like replacing thermostat batteries or addressing minor drain clogs, are often up to you. That’s where a maintenance toolkit comes in handy.

Having a few essential tools on hand can save you time, reduce stress and prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to build a compact, yet powerful maintenance toolkit, complete with tips from our maintenance team.

Why Everyone Should Have a Toolkit

A maintenance toolkit empowers you to:

Handle minor repairs without waiting for maintenance

Avoid unnecessary service calls

Keep your home in good condition

Feel more confident and self-sufficient

What to Include in Your Toolkit

Here’s a breakdown of the most used tools for everyday home fixes, with links to products included for your convenience:

1. Zip Strips: A quick, inexpensive way to clear minor clogs in bathroom sinks, tubs and showers. They’re especially useful for removing hair buildup without the need for harsher chemicals or a plumber. Sometimes referred to as “drain cleaning tools” or “hair clog removers”.

2. Toilet Plunger: A must-have for any household, a toilet plunger helps you tackle minor toilet clogs quickly and efficiently. Choose one with a flange design for better suction and compatibility with most toilet shapes.

3. Assorted Batteries: Keep a small stash of AA, AAA, and 9V batteries on hand for devices like smoke detectors, thermostats, remote controls and smart locks. Having extras means you won’t be caught off guard when something stops working.

4. HVAC Filters: Replacing your HVAC filter regularly helps maintain air quality and keeps your system running efficiently. Check your unit’s size and change the filter every 1–3 months, especially if you have pets or allergies.

5. Screwdriver Set: A basic set with both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers will cover most needs, from tightening door handles to replacing outlet covers.

6. Hammer: Perfect for everyday tasks like assembling furniture or securing loose nails.

7. Tape Measure: Essential for measuring spaces, furniture or curtains.

8. Adjustable Wrench: Useful for plumbing fixes or tightening bolts.

9. Pliers: Great for gripping, bending or cutting wires.

10. Utility Knife: Handy for opening boxes, trimming materials or light cutting tasks.

11. Level: Ensures your wall hangings and shelves are straight.

12. Flashlight or Headlamp: For working in dark spaces like under sinks or behind appliances.

13. Assorted Nails, Screws & Anchors: A small organizer box with various fasteners will save you trips to the hardware store.

14. Toolbox Storage: Keep your toolkit compact and organized. A small toolbox or even a sturdy tote bag works well. Label compartments or use zip pouches to separate items by category.

Bonus Items to Consider

Painter’s tape – for marking or protecting surfaces.

Super glue – for quick fixes on broken items.

WD-40 – for squeaky hinges or stuck bolts.

Gloves – to protect your hands during repairs.

Building a mini maintenance toolkit is a smart move for anyone renting a home. It’s a small investment that pays off in convenience and confidence.

Need help figuring out what issues are your responsibilities versus what we’ll manage at Progress Residential? Read our “Home Care and Maintenance Request Guide” here.

We also have a Youtube playlist called “Maintenance in Minutes” that walks you through: