Residents are being reminded to take care when using candles after their use as part of a religious shrine is believed to have started a fire on East Road in Edgware.
The ground floor and first floor of the terraced-house were destroyed by the fire and part of the roof and a garden shed were also damaged.
Three people left the property before the Brigade arrived. They were assessed at the scene by London Ambulance Service crews and taken to hospital suffering minor smoke inhalation.
The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the cause of the fire was candles being used as part of a religious shrine.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “This fire started in a timber shed where the occupants had earlier lit candles and an oil burner.
“They later smelt burning and found the shed alight. The fire spread into the property via the open patio doors and the ground and first floor were destroyed.
“Fortunately, there were no serious injuries from this fire, but it serves as a timely reminder about the importance of taking care when using candles.
“They are one of the most common causes of fire and you should never leave them unattended and always make sure they are extinguished properly."
The Brigade was called at 1221 and the fire was under control at 1404. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters from Stanmore, Mill Hill, Hendon, Willesden and West Hampstead fire stations attended scene.
• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• These items should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.
• Keep them away from materials that might catch fire – that's things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.
Find out more about using candles safely