The District of North Vancouver Fire Department continues to investigate the cause of a Sunday morning blaze that forced ten people from their homes overnight.

Firefighters responded to the scene just before 2 a.m. and had it under control within an hour.

"The duplex sustained extensive damage and the residents will likely not be able to return for quite some time," said City of North Vancouver Fire Chief Dan Pistilli. "A portion of the roof also collapsed."

Ten residents are now staying in nearby hotels and receiving emergency assistance from the provincial government. 

Two cats also died at the scene.