What's In Your Tool Box? Every home should have a basic toolbox. I've sent each of my kids off with one of their own and I've taught them all how to do simple projects using everything in that toolbox. As someone living in a home, you will wind up with tools for special projects, things you don't use very often. But a basic toolbox is essential and should be kept in a hall closet, or at least have a few things handy in a kitchen drawer. Here's a list of tools everyone should have, whether you live in a house or an apartment, these basic tools will come in handy. One more thing to keep in mind, always buy good tools, professional grade hand tools and power tools will cost a bit more, but they will last you a lifetime and make the job easier. Nothing worse than breaking the cute pink screwdriver when you're prying the lid off the paint can. • A sturdy 25 0r 30 foot tape measure • Assortment of screwdrivers and driver heads • Pliers- needle-nose, locking vise grips, channel locks, wire cutting pliers • Levels - small torpedo, 24 inch and a 48 inch level • Hammers- rubber mallet, small and medium size claw hammer • For small plumbing repairs-a plunger, drain snake • Putty knifes-painters 5 in 1 tool, small, medium flat drywall putty knife • Utility knife • A good caulking gun • Handsaw • Hacksaw • Hot glue gun • Cordless drill • Power saw • An assortment of nails, screws, hangers, wall anchors • Solvents-nail polish remover, goof off • Tape-black electrical, painters blue and of course duct tape And last but not least know where your main water shut off is, your main gas shut off valve and how to turn off the main electrical service breaker.