The hunt is on for an arsonist who deliberately lit five separate fires in Sydney’s inner suburbs last night.

Starting at 11.40pm, the firebug allegedly set fire to three homes, a shop and a car, all within a 500-metre radius in Glebe.

Emergency services were forced to evacuate several residents who were inside the homes.

GLEBE: @nswpolice are hunting an arsonist who lit fires at 6 locations, torching homes, a car and the community op shop overnight. 1 man was taken to hospital and treated for smoke inhalation @10NewsFirstSyd @10Daily pic.twitter.com/aWcE4Dexcn

— Kimberley Pratt (@Kim_Pratt10) October 14, 2019

There has been extensive damage to several of the properties.

One man who escaped from a burning home on Campbell Street was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital as a precaution.

Multiple crime scenes have been established and police have launched a joint investigation with Fire and Rescue NSW.

Police will address the media at 11.30am with more details.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

Image: Nine News