WELLS – A Monday night fire that caused significant damage to a two-story home at 542 Lindsey Road started in the basement, according to Wells Fire Chief Dan Moore.

Moore said the fire was caused when electrical-powered heat tape, which was being used to prevent water pipes from freezing, malfunctioned.

The fire was well under way by the time firefighters arrived shortly after 8 p.m.

The occupants were not at home when the fire started, but a family cat perished in the blaze.

An online story Monday night incorrectly reported the address of the fire as 504 Lindsey Road.