Borrow Tools
How it Works
Follow these steps to become a Houston ToolBank member and borrow from our inventory of more than 305 types of tools and equipment.
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1
Apply
Complete our brief online membership application to participate in the Tool Lending Program. The application validates your organization’s not-for-profit or tax-exempt status and creates a user account in our online portal (called “TOM”) where tool orders can be placed. Membership is free.
Already a Member? Log in to our Member Agency PortalNot sure if your organization is already a member? Contact us
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2
Request
Once the application is approved, you may log in to your account and submit a request online. Like a library, our program works on a first-come, first-served basis, so place your requests as soon as you can!We require a minimum of 3 business days’ notice for a tool order.
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3
Receive
To receive tools, pick them up at the Houston ToolBank warehouse, a Neighborhood Tool Hub, or accept delivery at a coordinated pickup time. Houston ToolBank staff provides usage and care guidelines and an itemized receipt.
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4
Return
After completing your project, return borrowed tools at the scheduled return time. Houston ToolBank staff and volunteers will assist in unloading tools and checking them back into inventory.
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5
Repeat!
Once you’re a member, the Houston ToolBank can equip your organization to host fundraisers, conduct outreach events, and more to support our community through blue and gray skies! Memberships can be renewed annually.
Our Inventory of Tools, Equipment, and More
We have what are conventionally considered “tools” like hammers and power drills; events equipment like tables, chairs, and pop-up tents; bigger equipment like generators, portable AC units, and dehumidifiers; and more. We even have cornhole and other games for enrichment and team-building!
Houston ToolBank inventory is expanding and changing all the time in response to our community’s needs. Need something we don’t have? Let us know!
What To Expect
Program Fees
Members are required to pay tool handling and (if applicable) delivery fees to borrow tools. All known fees are due at the time of pickup, and any additional fees incurred throughout the order are due upon return. If an exception is needed, coordinate with HTB staff before your pickup or delivery. Members with unpaid invoices will not be allowed to borrow inventory until the payments have been made.
Go to our Disaster Support page to learn more about fees for disaster-related borrowing.
Members may incur easily avoidable fees as a result of situations like missing delivery appointments, returning inventory late, broken and unusable, dirty, etc. Click the button below to see our full list of fees.
Appointment Policy
All tool order pickups, returns, and deliveries are by appointment only.
Cleaning Guidelines
Learn more about our tool cleaning requirements and proper cleaning procedures.
Tool Manuals
Find instruction manuals for tools you borrow. If you can’t find what you need, give us a call.
Direct Delivery Services
Learn more about what our Direct Delivery services include.
Neighborhood Tool Hubs
Learn more about our Neighborhood Tool Hubs, which can be booked to pick up or drop off your order at one of seven locations across Southeast Texas with 24/7 access.
Questions?
If you need help navigating our tool ordering system or figuring out what tools you need to complete a project, don’t hesitate to reach out.
