$700,000 in damage after overnight house fire in Windsor

"Jumped up to see what was going on and looked out the window and saw this house, saw the flames shooting out of the roof. It was pretty scary," said resident John Powell.

Windsor Fire officials say the flames started on the second floor but it wasn't long before the roof collapsed.

"Too much damage in the structure to investigate so it's going to be undetermined at this time. No injuries," said fire prevention officer Mike Coste.

Residents say the home has been vacant for a number of years and complaints have been filed with the city. Squatters are also known to have occupied parts of the house.

The neighbouring house to the south also sustained some damage.

"Built in the early 1900's. Wood tends to burn really quickly. I'm really thankful Windsor Fire and Rescue were able to save the house next door," Powell said.

The house at 849 Victoria Avenue had a heritage status, but it's not designated historical.

The owner of the home was visibly shaken by the fire. He told CTV News he has been renovating the home and was looking forward to moving his family in.

Damage from the fire is estimated at about $700,000 dollars.

"It's a shame. It's sad," Powell said. "It's a part of history that is gone."

Today is the first day of Emergency Preparedness week and Windsor Fire officials remind the public to be ready for anything.

"I beat this to death every time but a good portion of people in the city still don't have working smoke alarms," Coste said while pointing out there is a fire almost every week in the City of Windsor.

"Make sure you have an emergency escape plan and make sure that you practice it. Two ways in and out of every room. A meeting outside. Call 911. Do not go back in."