The must-haves
- Two adjustable spanners — one to hold, one to turn.
- Water pump pliers (grips) — for nuts, traps and stubborn fittings.
- Pipe cutters for 15mm and 22mm copper — clean, square cuts.
- Deburring tool — smooths cut pipe so olives and push-fit seals are not damaged.
- Flat and cross-head screwdrivers — including a small flat one for isolation valves.
- Basin wrench or tap spanner — reaches tap nuts under basins.
- Radiator key and a multi-key for stopcocks and valves.
- PTFE tape and jointing compound.
- Head torch — you will spend a lot of time in dark cupboards.
- Bucket, towels and a sponge.
Nice to have
- Plastic pipe cutters for push-fit pipe.
- Olive puller.
- Drain snake and plunger.
- Inspection mirror.
- Cordless drill with bits.
- Spirit level and tape measure.
Spares to carry
Carry a small box of common spares: 15mm olives, tap washers, flexi tails, isolation valves, a fill valve, flush valve seals and trap washers. Being able to finish the job on the first visit makes customers happy.
Buy quality where it matters
Spend more on spanners, pipe cutters and grips — you use them every day. Cheap versions slip and round off nuts. Cheaper is fine for buckets and sponges.
