10 essential tools every homeowner needs (and which are worth protecting)

Sunday afternoon. You’re holding a cup of coffee when suddenly, your TV mount falls off. Thirty minutes later, you’re in a hardware aisle searching, “what’s a stud finder?”  

Most repairs don’t fail because of skill — they fail because you don’t have the right tools.

At Asurion, we’ve helped millions of Amazon customers protect the tools and devices they rely on every day. That experience gives us perspective on the products people tend to rely on most.

Essential tools and devices every homeowner should have

1. Cordless drill

2. Circular or reciprocating saw

3. Smart locks

4. Laser distance measure

5. Stud finder + level kit
6. Tool set (pliers, wrenches, etc.) 

7. Claw hammer

8. Multi-bit screwdriver
9. Utility knife

10. Flashlight/headlamp

If you’re buying these on Amazon, keep in mind that the tools and devices you use most, like drills, saws, and smart locks, are also the ones most likely to break down.

Instead of replacing expensive tools out of pocket, a plan like Asurion Complete Protect helps cover breakdowns across multiple tools and devices under one simple plan.

Why these tools and devices matter

1. Cordless drill - For drilling holes and driving screws

• Why it matters: Speeds up almost every project 
• Worth protecting? Yes, it’s one of the most-used tool at home, which means higher risk of wear and accidental damage fom handling.

2. Circular or reciprocating saw - For cutting wood, drywall, and materials

• Why it matters: Essential for bigger DIY projects and repairs
• Worth protecting? Yes, heavy use and higher repair costs make protection valuable.

As projects grow, many homeowners also invest in tools that improve everyday living.

3. Smart locks - Keyless entry and home security

• Why it matters: Protects access to your home and adds convenience
• Worth protecting? Yes, smart locks are used daily and exposed to both wear and environmental conditions, making them strong candidates for protection.

Smart home devices can be a headache when they stop working. If you’re buying on Amazon, Asurion Complete Protect can help cover select smart locks and give you tech support whenever you need it.

4. Laser distance measure - Faster, more precise way to measure

• Why it matters: Improves efficiency and accuracy across projects.
• Worth protecting? Yes, repeated use across projects increases wear and risk of failure. 

5. Combined stud finder and laser level - Helps you mount safely and accurately

• Why it matters: A 2-in-1 tool lets you find studs and level in one step.
• Worth protecting? Yes, repeated use across projects increases wear and risk of failure.

6. Tool set (pliers, wrenches, etc.) - Essential set for everyday repairs

• Why it matters: Covers multiple tasks so you’re ready for almost any quick fix.
• Worth protecting? Depends, if used often, they wear down faster.

7. Claw hammer - A staple for basic construction and quick fixes

• Why it matters: Simple, reliable, always needed
• Worth protecting? No, typically low-cost and easier to replace than protect.

8. Multi-bit screwdriver - A compact, versatile tool with interchangeable heads

• Why it matters: One tool replaces multiple screwdrivers, making it faster and more convenient.
• Worth protecting? Yes, moving parts and frequent use increase the likelihood of wear.

9. Utility knife - For cutting materials like drywall, flooring, and packaging

• Why it matters: Quick, precise cuts for everyday tasks.
• Worth protecting? No, consumable parts and low cost make replacement more practical.

10. Flashlight or headlamp - Essential for visibility and safety

• Why it matters: Makes working in low-light easier and safer. 
• Worth protecting? Yes, portability and frequent use increase the chance of damage.

What to look for when buying tools for your home

Before you buy, ask these questions:

• Will I use this often?
• Does it solve multiple problems?
• Will it save time or prevent mistakes?

The tools you use most wear out fastest, and with the ability to cover multiple items under one plan, it makes sense to protect the ones you rely on regularly.

Best starter tool kit for new homeowners

Start with:

1. Cordless drill 
2. Tool set
3. Flashlight or headlamp
4. Utility knife

Add saws, measuring tools, and smart locks as your needs expand.


Common mistakes to avoid when buying tools

• Buying tools you won’t use often
• Choosing low-quality tools that wear out quickly
• Not protecting eligible tools you rely on

Protect multiple tools and devices with one simple plan

The tools and devices you use most are also the ones most likely to wear out and replacing them individually can get expensive.

That’s why many homeowners choose Asurion Complete Protect. Instead of covering just one item, it covers multiple eligible Amazon purchases under one simple plan, including:

• Home improvement tools (drills, saws, smart locks, etc.)
• Kitchen products (air fryers, coffee makers, blenders, etc.)
• Home tech (TVs, laptops, tablets, etc.)
• And many more

Product eligibility varies by category. Please see terms and conditions for details.

What you get:

• Coverage for mechanical and electrical failures after the manufacturer’s warranty expires
• Fast repairs or reimbursements
• 24/7 expert setup and support for your tech
• Up to $385/year in total retail value from additional benefits

If you’re already protecting one item, easily expand coverage to more with Asurion Complete Protect, all in one place.

Final thoughts

You don’t need a full workshop. You just need tools that save you time, money, and frustration. And for the ones you use every day? Make sure they're protected to avoid unexpected costs.

Frequently asked questions about homeowner tools and protection

Which tools are essential for every homeowner?

Every homeowner should have a cordless drill, laser distance measure, combined stud finder and level, tool set, claw hammer, multi-bit screwdriver, utility knife, and flashlight or headlamp. For larger projects, consider a circular saw and reciprocating saw. To improve security and home value, a smart lock is also a modern essential.

Which tools are used the most? 

Drills, screwdrivers, measuring tools, and utility knives are used most often — which also means they’re more likely to wear out over time.

Are expensive tools worth it?


If you use a tool regularly, higher-quality options tend to last longer and perform better, making them a smarter long-term investment.

Is it worth protecting my tools?

Yes, high-use tools and smart devices wear down over time, so protecting them can save you from unexpected costs. Plans like Asurion Complete Protect cover breakdowns on eligible products after the manufacturer warranty ends.

What if I already have an Asurion protection plan for one item?

If you already have a protection plan for one item, that’s great! To protect more, Asurion Complete Protect offers a simple way to cover house-fulls of Amazon buys, including items bought up to 90 days ago, all in one plan.