Helsingin kaupungin asunnot oy (Heka), a housing company in Helsinki, has reported finding illegal subleasing and accommodation activities occurring in 14 of its apartments. This follows a strict ban on short-term subleasing that came into effect at the end of 2025. Heka has intensified its monitoring efforts as these apartments are intended solely for permanent housing rather than for temporary accommodation.

In response to the findings, Heka has initiated eviction proceedings in accordance with the residential lease law in order to terminate the leases associated with these unauthorized activities. Heka acknowledges that this legal process will take time, but it is deemed necessary to legally end the tenant agreements and prevent further unlawful operations. However, they have indicated that they have no means to remove listings made by tenants on platforms such as Airbnb, which complicates their ability to regulate these activities.

Maria Aspala, Heka's CEO, has emphasized the company's commitment to stopping any actions that would transform their apartments into profit-generating assets unlawfully. She has stated that Heka will promptly address any incidents of unauthorized subleasing as they arise, highlighting the company’s proactive stance in ensuring that their rental properties are used for their intended purpose. Heka continues to remind all tenants of their policies and the repercussions of violating them, aiming to preserve the integrity of their housing provision.