A residential unit has been badly damaged by fire at an accommodation support service for those in need.
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Firefighters were called to the unit at Mercy Connect in Thurgoona about 8.15pm on Monday.
The unit, near St Johns Road, was gutted.
Mercy Connect chief executive Trent Dean said the service quickly found a new home for the man who lived there.
"It was an accidental fire that was brought under control very quickly," he said.
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"The chap is being looked after, he got new short term accommodation with another provider that night.
"The police and firefighters who came out were very responsive and very helpful."
Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Stewart Alexander said the fire was under control after about 30 minutes, and firefighters cleared the area about 9.30pm.
"They had it under control quite quickly," he said.
"The cause of the fire is still under investigation."
The resident was not injured in the incident.
Superintendent Alexander said it was a timely reminder of fire safety in the home, with more people in their houses due to COVID-19 and the greater use of heaters, electric blankets and clothes dryers.
House fires increased by 10 per cent during the cooler months, he said.
"NSW Fire and Rescue remains ready to respond through the pandemic, but please remain vigilant.
"Firefighters are going to work for you, please stay at home for us."
He said it was important homes had working smoke alarms on each level.
