The home, on Park Avenue West near Plains Road West and North Shore Boulevard West, was under renovation. 

Fire prevention officer Ben Rotsma with the Burlington fire department said a neighbour on the street reported smoke coming from the house around 9:30 p.m.

No one was inside but Rotsma said neighbours told fire officials the woman who lives in the home had been staying at a Burlington hotel while renovations were being completed.

As of 11:30 p.m. last night, fire officials had yet to make contact with her.

He said preliminary investigations indicate the fire may have started in the basement.

There was heavy fire and smoke damage throughout most of the home, including the attic.

Rotsma said there was no early indication the cause was suspicious but an investigation was continuing.