Plumbing Tools Starter Kit — What Every New Plumber Needs
Knowing which tools to buy — and in what order — is one of the most practical questions every new plumber faces. Buy everything at once and you'll spend thousands on tools you don't need yet. Buy too little and you'll be caught out on jobs. This guide breaks down the essential kit by priority, with real advice on brands and where to buy.
How much should you budget?
A solid starter kit of core hand tools costs £400–£800 if bought new. Many experienced plumbers recommend buying quality brands for the tools you use every day (pipe cutters, adjustable spanners, blowtorch), and budget versions for tools you use occasionally.
Avoid the temptation to buy everything at once. Build your kit over the first 6–12 months as you encounter jobs that need specific tools. Your employer or supervisor should supply specialist tools early in your career.
Essential first-day tools
These are the tools you will use on virtually every job. Buy these first and buy quality — they will last your entire career if treated correctly.
- →Adjustable spanners — a 10" and a 12" (Bahco or Irwin are excellent brands)
- →Pipe slice / pipe cutter — a 15mm and a 22mm rotary cutter (Ridgid and Monument are industry favourites)
- →Stillson pipe wrench — 10" and 14" for copper and iron pipework
- →Tongue-and-groove pliers (Knipex Cobra or Channellock) — for compression fittings and pump work
- →Basin wrench — essential for reaching backnut under basins and sinks
- →Hacksaw with good quality blades (Bahco 12")
- →Flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers (Wera or Wiha for precision)
- →Spirit level — 600mm minimum
- →Tape measure — 5m (Stanley or Stabila)
- →Torch and head torch — for working in airing cupboards and under floors
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