Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers were called to a house fire on Pear Close in Colindale early this morning.
The blaze affected part of the first floor and severely damaged the property’s loft conversion which was used as living accommodation.
Watch Manager Michael Passingham who was at the scene said:
“When firefighters arrived they were faced with a severe fire and flames coming from the roof. Using breathing apparatus and jets they made their way upstairs and immediately tackled the fire.
“There was no smoke alarm fitted in the roof space. Everyone should have at least one smoke alarm on every level of their home and the safest option is have those linked together. This will give the earliest warning if there is a fire."
Two people occupying the property left before the arrival of the Brigade. The man was uninjured, while the woman suffered from smoke inhalation and was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental due to an electrical fault.
The Brigade was called at 0407 and the fire was under control by 0529. Fire crews from Hendon and Stanmore fire stations attended the scene.