JEFFERSON TWP — A wood-burning stove was blamed for a fire Sunday night that badly damaged a small house on Rennick Road, authorities said.

A young couple was able to escape unharmed after discovering the blaze shortly after 10 p.m.

“It looks like the fire came out from around the flue pipe and heated the rafters to where there was a fire,” said Chief Chris Ballina of the Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Company.

Damage was estimated at between $80,000 and $100,000. Carol Geibel owns the house, which was insured. The home has one main floor with a basement and attic.

It was not known if the tenants, whose names were not available this morning, had renter’s insurance.

While some of the tenants’ contents were salvaged, Ballina said, the house may have to be torn down due to the extensive damage.

The couple is believed to be living with relatives.