Moving from Canada to Edinburgh... advice?

I'd like to ask for some general advice on a move from Canada to Edinburgh. (Apologies in advance for the length of this post...)

Here in Canada, I call myself a carpenter. I have two years formal education in heritage restoration, and in 5 years of work experience, have worked mostly in residential (ie, private home) settings doing additions and renovations. I've also built traditional doors, windows, and entire kitchens. (Hope these links work: my latest kitchen.)
http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk236/nigelthecanadian/knob1.jpg
http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk236/nigelthecanadian/drawer2.jpg

I'm happy doing any honest work, but my inclination is to more precise finish work, than rough framing.

I'm hoping to find work with a company doing residential work at a high standard of quality. I plan to bring hand tools (including cordless drills) but no power or air tools. In a perfect world, the company would provide transport from the office to the jobsite. Given my initial lack of familiarity with how things work, the lack of power tools and transport, I expect a low wage.

First and foremost, do you think my plan is crazy, or do I have a chance of finding a company to take me on? Is my lack of qualifications likely to be a problem? Are power tools necessary? Should I be looking at building site work as well as residential? Would I need a vehicle? Any guesses as to what the hourly wage would be for someone like me?

I imagine that established companies are very proper in how they employ and pay people, but I wonder if smaller companies are likely to pay in cash and forget about paperwork and taxes. (As it happens, I have dual citizenship -- Canada/UK -- so I'm legally permitted to work.)

Any other comments about the employment situation in Edinburgh would be appreciated.


Thanks in advance for your time and advice,


Nigel Robinson

 

Thanks to everyone for your advice. I really appreciate it.

dual193, I'm moving for love. If economics were the only determinant, I wouldn't be moving, as I think the cost of living/ salary ratio is much better in Canada. Though it depends somewhat on where you are, I think there tends to be a good market for skilled trades here. Don't hesitate to ask more questions...