Landlord wants tenant to fit a kitchen?

FBaby

What exactly is required? Just cupboards or more? What you need to do is have a clear arrangement with the LL, definitely all in writing, by which you are both clear what you are agreeing to.

If you really want this house, then buy unfitted kitchen furniture that you can take with you if/when you move.

If the LL is agreeing to one month free rental, that might be on the expectation that the furniture stays even if OP leaves (through their choice or not).

What I would do is ask to speak with the LL and agree on what needs replacing and the costs. Then agree what is yours and what remains with the house and agree a reduction of rent that equals the cost of what would remain in the house + an element of labour cost.

Have it all signed and included in the lease which indeed should be negotiated to be longer than 6 months, but be careful with a 3 year one, you never know what can happen during that time when you might be the one wanting to move out sooner.

PersianCatLady

I can't believe that you are considering giving up your HA tenancy for an AST.

Also considering that the LL is an old lady, what happens when she dies??