Every homeowner has that one drawer full of screws, batteries and a tape measure. But when it comes to DIY, there are tools that earn their place in the house.

1-The cordless drill

It’s the tool you never realise you need until you’re trying to hang shelves. A decent drill saves time, effort and a lot of frustration.

2-A reliable tape measure is another must-have

Whether you’re checking if a sofa will fit through the door, measuring avoids expensive mistakes.

3-You’ll also want a solid claw hammer

This is for flat-pack furniture, picture hooks and skirting boards. It handles more jobs than people think.

4-A spirit level deserves a mention too

Crooked shelves become impossible to ignore once you spot them. It’s one of those small tools that makes a difference. Interest in DIY and home upgrades is growing, especially as more homeowners choose to improve rather than move. People browsing builders merchants vacancies are seeing how much demand there is for skills, and there are specialists like //bmcareers.com/distributors-and-builders-merchants-vacancies/ in this area.

Homeowners are investing in maintenance

People are turning to storage and upgrades rather than cosmetic changes. This keeps properties in good condition. Home renovation held steady in 2025 as more than half of U.S. homeowners undertook projects, according to a study.

5-The adjustable spanner

Every house seems to develop a drip eventually, and this tool can help tighten fittings without needing to call a plumber.

6-Don’t underestimate a good Stanley knife

From opening boxes to trimming carpet edges, it’s handy to keep nearby.