An investigation is under way into the cause of a fire which destroyed a house at Belmont overnight.
Around 20 firefighters from 5 stations and the Newcastle Aerial appliance were called to the single storey weatherboard home on the corner of Walter Street and Brooks Parade just after 12.30am on Tuesday to find the house well alight.
It's taken around 45 minutes to extinguish the blaze, which caused the roof and part of the floor to collapse.
Crews remained on scene until 4.00am mopping up hot spots.
No-one was home at the time - it's thought the house was being used by squatters.
There are reports of someone seen leaving the home just before fire crews arrived.
Fire Crews Tackle The Intense Fire Early Tuesday Morning Picture: Michele Boyd |