Four fire engines and around 25 fire fighters attended a fire at a hostel on Cranbrook Road in Ilford.
About 30 people had evacuated the building ahead of the Brigade's arrival. The fire damaged part of a room on the second floor of the building.
London Fire Brigade Spokesperson said:
"The fire is believed to be caused a candle in a shrine left unattended. Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire."
The Brigade were called at 2049 and the fire was under control at 2146. Fire crews from Ilford, Hainault and Woodford fire stations attended the scene.