Four fire engines and around 20 firefighters and officers were called to a fire at a block of flats in Honour Gardens in Dagenham.
Part of a flat on the third floor of the building was damaged by fire. Two adults and two children left the flat before the arrival of the Brigade.
A further 10 residents left the building before the arrival of the Brigade.
The Brigade was called at 0824 and the fire was under control at 0930. Fire crews from Ilford and Barking fire stations attended the scene.
The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental and due to an incense stick.