European residential real estate operator Heimstaden has assessed environmental risks across its portfolio with Environmental Sustainability Analyst, Julia Erlandsen at Heimstaden using Codex to help build a different approach.
Codex supported the discovery, cleaning and standardisation of data, quality checking and the development of repeatable processing pipelines while Julia retained control over the methodology and validation. The result over 20,112 assets assessed lead to over six million rows of useful data generated, and an estimated delivery requirement reduced from five people working for a year to two people working for two months.
Heimstaden also avoided engaging external consultants which would otherwise have been needed to solve the problem. What began as a complex analytical project is becoming a repeatable capability, supporting climate-risk assessments, reporting requirements and investor decision-making.
“Codex helped us build a solution that would previously have required substantial technical support. We now own the methodology and can continue developing it ourselves.”
Julia Erlandsen, Environmental Sustainability Analyst, Heimstaden
Heimstaden’s AI adoption focuses on tasks employees need help with. After ChatGPT Enterprise launched in September 2025, half of employees were using it within two to three months. A central AI transformation office maintains a library of use cases so colleagues can learn from examples across the business. Employees use approved tools within rules for data security. They remain responsible for reviewing AI-generated content before sending it and for approving decisions.
Adoption extends to real estate caretakers, including some who were initially sceptical. In Norway, one caretaker used ChatGPT to assess a neglected apartment and draft a prioritised refurbishment plan, turning observations into a structured plan they could review and refine.
“People across the business are finding practical ways to use AI in their daily work. Our job is to scale what works while keeping data secure, responsibilities clear and people in control.”
Andreas Kalmar Lindquist, Manager AI First Team, Heimstaden
Heimstaden is already preparing for the next stage: AI that can work across systems and coordinate multi-step processes. On its Procurement Intelligence Platform, currently being rolled out, combines workflow automation with OpenAI models accessed through APIs. Designed to operate across Outlook, SharePoint and Teams, it supports contract analysis, negotiation preparation and contract lifecycle management, with employees retaining responsibility for commercial decisions and approvals.
Heimstaden is co-developing Amplio Estate, a modern property management system designed to support AI-powered workflows through MCP. The goal is to enable employees to use AI, such as ChatGPT, to retrieve property information and act in core business systems, with appropriate human oversight – an example of how Heimstaden begins turning the idea of self-operating buildings into a practical technology roadmap.
