Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a fire on Digby Crescent in Stoke Newington.
Most of a first-floor flat, inside a three-storey house converted into flats, was damaged by fire. One man left the flat before firefighters arrived. He was treated at the scene by London Ambulance Service crews.
The fire is believed to have been caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "We'd rather you didn't smoke at all, but if you are a smoker, it's absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you've finished smoking it.
"If you don't, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy properties but also cost you your life."
The Brigade's 999 Control Officers received 12 calls about the fire.
The Brigade was called at 0033 and the fire was under control by 0132. Crews from Stoke Newington, Holloway and Islington fire stations attended the scene.
Firefighters' smoking safety tips
· Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
· Don’t leave lit pipes or cigarettes unattended.
· It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
· Don't balance cigars or cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray, or anything else – they can tip and fall as they burn away and cause a fire.
· Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
· Always empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin – never use a wastepaper basket.