Two students from south-east London are facing homelessness after a fire ravaged their flat, and they report feeling “stuck between” their landlord and the council one month later.

Aisha Sana, 22, and her roommate Yousra, 21, were displaced from their residence in Hatcham Park Mews, New Cross, due to a fire that ignited on August 20.

Approximately 100 firefighters responded to the blaze, which caused significant damage to the building and obliterated its roof. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) confirmed that there were no injuries, but all residents were rendered homeless.

Lewisham Council stated that it offered temporary hotel accommodation to the students but expressed regret for any “confusion about the support available.” The real estate agency responsible for the flat has also been contacted for a statement.

The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental, though it is still under investigation.

Initially, the pair found shelter in a nearby pub before being moved to temporary hotel accommodations by the council.

Following the incident, Ms. Sana mentioned that she and Yousra felt “caught between” their landlord and the council regarding who should provide assistance.

“When the fire occurred, the discussions made it seem like we would be re-homed,” she noted.

“However, the landlord claimed they had no legal obligation, while the council instructed us to return to the landlord.”

Currently, Ms. Sana indicated they are conducting three to four apartment viewings daily.

“We’ve explored numerous properties, but none have worked out due to the exorbitant costs—they’re just outrageous.”

A spokesperson for Lewisham Council stated, “We understand that this has been an incredibly distressing period for all residents affected by the fire, and we apologize if there has been any lack of clarity regarding the support the council can offer.”

They confirmed that the council’s homelessness team continues to engage with those impacted.

The students, who are currently staying with a friend outside of London, have initiated a crowdfunding campaign to replace essential belongings and cover their basic expenses.

Yousra shared, “I genuinely believe that the only way some individuals have managed to receive any financial support is through private donations from family members or colleagues.”

“It’s heartwarming to see the community in New Cross come together to help us during this time. It highlights how tightly knit it is.”