A family has been forced out of their home following a fire in Waterloo’s Laurelwood neighbourhood Tuesday morning that caused extensive damage to two properties.
Waterloo Fire Rescue responded shortly after 10 a.m. to the area of Creekside Drive and Buttercup Court, with firefighters from three stations dispatched to battle the blaze.
Crews quickly brought the fire under control but continued working to check for hidden flames after discovering that the fire had spread toward the roofline and potentially into the attic.
Investigators believe the blaze originated outdoors in the space between two neighbouring homes before spreading and damaging both properties.
One person was inside the initially affected home when the fire started but managed to escape safely. No injuries were reported.
The occupants of the primary residence have been displaced, while the neighbouring household will be able to remain in their home despite the damage. Fire officials estimate the total damage at between $500,000 and $1 million.
The cause remains under investigation. Officials confirmed that the Ontario Fire Marshal will not be participating in the investigation.