Maria Aspala, the CEO of Heka, the Helsinki City housing company, has highlighted the company's strict policies against unauthorized subletting of its rental properties, particularly on popular platforms such as Airbnb. She stated that the company has prohibited short-term subleasing since the end of 2025 and that any repeat violations can lead to the termination of the lease agreement. In her recent communication, Aspala reassured tenants and the public that Heka is actively monitoring and addressing these infractions.

The issue gained attention after a specific Heka apartment in Vallila was advertised as available for rent through Airbnb at a rate of approximately eighty euros per night, despite the company asserting that such listings are not permissible. The monthly rent for this particular unit is about four hundred euros, indicating a significant price discrepancy that could attract attention from tourists and travelers. Aspala's approach emphasizes the need for compliance with rental agreements and the importance of addressing unauthorized activities swiftly.

The implications of this situation extend to local tourism and housing markets in Helsinki. As unauthorized rentals often affect the availability and pricing of legitimate housing options for residents, Heka's enforcement efforts reflect broader concerns regarding short-term rentals that can impact community integrity. Aspala's statements reflect a commitment to maintaining Heka's integrity while also acknowledging the growing trend of Airbnb and similar services within urban environments.