A plumber using a torch to repair water pipes accidentally started a weekend fire that caused an estimated $200,000 in damage to a pair of town homes in Buffalo Grove, investigators said Monday.
Firefighters called Sunday afternoon to the Le Parc townhouse subdivision, in the 660 block of Le Parc Circle, found smoke pouring from the shared attic of two adjoining units, according to Buffalo Grove Fire Department officials.
The fire started in the walls of a second floor bathroom, where the plumber was working, and spread into the attic, according to Buffalo Grove Deputy Fire Chief Jim Hansen. Damage to both units was extensive, with the attic and second floor ceilings sustaining heavy fire, smoke and water damage. A third unit also experienced smoke and water damage, said Hansen.