Image source: Clair Strong Interior Design
Whether you’ve just bought your first house or you’ve lived in your property for years, there are certain things every homeowner needs. The following is a short list of absolute essentials to keep your home safe, secure and stress-free.
- An Emergency Fund
Being a homeowner is expensive, and there can be lots of unexpected and unplanned costs; like a boiler breakdown or burst pipes. In these instances it’s nice to have the money already saved so you’re not left without hot water or forced to take out additional credit. If you can keep a floating emergency fund of at least £1,000 you’ll be covered in all but the most extreme circumstances.
- A Well-Stocked Tool Kit
You could pay someone to make small repairs or put up pictures, but it’s much more satisfying to do it yourself. At a minimum, your tool kit should include a couple of screwdrivers, hammer, spirit level and measuring tape, wrench, pliers, and utility knife. And if you want to make life really easy an electric drill is a must-have… even if you only use it for putting together flat-pack furniture.
- A Sewing Machine
Now I know a sewing machine doesn’t seem like much of a necessity, but bear with me here. Taking up curtains, repairing textiles, altering clothes, making your own Roman blinds or shower curtains… there are so many times when a sewing machine will come in handy. Learning the basics of sewing will save you time and money, and it’s actually quite fun. Every home should have a sewing machine, even if it’s just a basic second-hand one.
- A Handyman on Speed Dial
For those times when you just can’t fix it yourself. A local handyman that you know to be reliable and affordable will save you calling out the contractors unnecessarily. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, and find yourself someone you can trust for all your not-too-major jobs.
- An Emergency Kit
In the event of a power-cut or very severe weather an emergency kit will make your situation more bearable (and safer). The kit should contain first aid supplies, a couple of powerful torches, some candles and matches, a blanket and a few bottles of water. Hopefully you’ll never need to use it, but it’s good to have just in case.
- A Corkscrew
So you can crack into that bottle of wine after a stressful (or successful!) day.
