Tools and Equipment Needed To Start a Property Preservation Business

In property preservation, efficiency and preparedness are key. Keeping the right tools and materials on hand goes beyond convenience, it's part of doing the job right. With the right kit, you can handle diverse work orders confidently and finish on schedule to client specs.

This guide gives a clear list of the gear you need for property preservation—from routine maintenance to full cleanouts.

Equipment To Keep With You At All Times

• Generator: Provides power at properties where utilities are off.
• Shop Vac (Wet/Dry): Use for water removal, debris cleanup, and surface prep.
• Air Compressor: Powers pneumatic tools and it's key for winterization procedures.
• Foldable Ladder: Lets you safely reach roofs, attics, and high shelving.
• Cordless & Corded Drills: A cordless drill offers portability for quick tasks, while a corded drill provides steady power for demanding jobs like drilling through steel doors.
• Drill Bit Set: A full set, including bits for wood, metal, and masonry, helps with lock changes and minor repairs.
• Work Lights: Portable, high-intensity lighting helps you work safely in dark basements, garages, and properties without electricity.
• Digital Camera: Take high-resolution photos for documentation. A camera with at least 10x optical zoom and a strong built-in flash helps you capture clear evidence in any lighting.
• Camera Accessories: Keep at least two sets of extra rechargeable batteries and multiple high-capacity memory cards so you don't miss a required photo.
• Flashlights: Carry several reliable, bright flashlights for safety.
• Extension Cords: Use a 100-foot cord (or two 50-foot cords) and several 25-foot cords so you can power tools throughout a property.
• Power Strip: Lets you safely power multiple tools from a single outlet.
• Sump Pump: Use for emergency water removal from flooded basements or crawlspaces.
• GPS Navigation: A dedicated GPS unit or reliable smartphone app helps you route efficiently.

For Completing Debris Removal Work Orders (Trashouts)

• Dump Trailer or Dumpster Service: A dedicated dump trailer can save money long term; keep a reliable dumpster company's contact for large-scale jobs.
• Shovels: You'll need both a large, flat-head shovel for scooping and a standard digging shovel.
• Brooms & Dustpans: Use to clean surfaces to "broom-swept" condition as clients require.
• Heavy-Duty Garbage Cans: Use several large, durable cans to collect and move smaller debris to the main trailer or dumpster.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts, chemicals, and biohazards.
  • Dust Masks: Keep an N95-rated pack of 25–100 masks to protect against airborne particles and contaminants.
• Load Securement:
  • Mesh Tarp: Often legally required to cover loads during transport and prevent debris from flying out.
  • Ratchet Straps: Use to safely secure large items and appliances in a trailer.
• Mini-Sledgehammer: Use for light demolition and to dislodge stuck items.
• Contractor-Grade Garbage Bags: Standard bags will tear; use 3-mil or thicker bags designed to hold construction debris.

For Completing Winterization Work Orders

• Air Compressor with Hose: Use a 25–50 foot, 3/8-inch diameter hose to blow out all water from the plumbing lines.
• RV Antifreeze: You'll typically need about 3 gallons per property to protect drains, P-traps, and toilet bowls.
• Pressure Test Gauge: Use this gauge to verify that the plumbing system holds pressure and has no leaks. Don't use a homemade device; accuracy matters for liability.
• Pipe Fittings:
  • Shut-Off Valves (SharkBite Style): 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch push-to-connect valves let you cap water lines quickly and reliably.
  • Caps & Plugs: Keep a variety of 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch threaded caps and plugs for securing water heater and other supply lines.
• Wrenches: Carry pipe wrenches and adjustable crescent wrenches for handling various plumbing fixtures.
• Miscellaneous Supplies: Use zip ties, permanent markers (for labeling), and duct tape to secure fixtures and document the process.
• Garden Hose: You'll often need a 25-foot hose to drain water heaters and connect to outdoor spigots.

For Completing Maid Service Work Orders

• Vacuums: Use a standard vacuum for carpets and a shop vac for hard surfaces and heavy-duty cleaning.
• Cleaning Agents: All-purpose cleaner (like Pine-Sol), glass cleaner, and a powerful oven cleaner are standard.
• Cleaning Tools: Keep paper towels, a duster, and a complete mop-and-bucket set.
• Water Supply: Keep a 5-gallon or larger portable water container for properties where the water's shut off.

For Completing Yard Maintenance Work Orders

• Lawn Care Basics: Start with a reliable lawn mower and a weed eater (string trimmer).
• Cleanup Tools: Use a rake, shovels (digging and flat), and a leaf blower for a clean finish.
• Trimming Equipment: Use a standard hedge trimmer for shrubs and an extension pole trimmer to reach higher branches safely.
• Safety Gear: Wear durable work gloves.

For Changing Locks (Rekeys)

• Drills: Use cordless and corded drills to remove old locksets and install new hardware. Keep a robust drill bit set for drilling out stripped or damaged locks.
• Pry Bars: Keep two sizes. Use them to remove stubborn, old hardware or for minor demolition—don't pry open doors.
• Bank-Coded Locks: Stock knob locks, deadbolts, and padlocks all keyed to the specific code your client requires.
• Lockboxes: Securely store the new key on-site for agent and contractor access.
• Hasps: Use with padlocks to secure sheds, gates, and garage doors that lack their own locking mechanisms.
• Window & Slider Locks: Secure vulnerable windows and sliding glass doors.

Strategic Equipment Acquisition: Renting vs. Buying

For new businesses in property preservation, foreclosure cleanup, or REO services, managing startup costs is a big concern. Choosing to rent or buy affects a company's initial cash flow and the scope of services it can offer.

Service Offerings Will Dictate Equipment Needs

A big advantage of this industry is that it scales. Start by offering services your current equipment covers. For example, a contractor with basic lawn care tools can focus on yard maintenance. As the business grows, it can expand into full trashouts, winterizations, and minor repairs by adding more specialized equipment.

The Case for Renting in the Start-Up Phase

Renting before you buy has two big advantages. First, it lets the business grow organically, matching expenses to revenue without a large, speculative upfront investment. Second, it lets you gauge local demand. Renting a pressure washer for a few jobs can show whether buying one makes sense based on recurring client requests.

Large home improvement stores offer rental programs for everything from generators and pressure washers to trailers and trucks, giving you a low-risk way to offer a wider range of services.

Making Smart Financial Decisions

When you're starting a business, it's tempting to buy new, top-of-the-line equipment. It's important to curb this "emotional spending" and focus on return on investment (ROI). A functional, older pickup truck does the same job as a brand-new one at a fraction of the cost.

Pro-Tip: To get the most from rentals, plan your work in advance. Have all your personally owned tools (gloves, tarps, straps) loaded before picking up the rental item. This prevents paying for costly, last-minute purchases at the rental store and makes sure your rental period goes to work, not prep.

Ultimately, whether you rent or buy will vary. Core tools you use daily, like drills and a shop vac, are clear buy candidates. For specialized, high-cost gear you don't use often, renting is usually the most financially prudent choice, especially during the early start-up phase of your business.