Dozens are homeless in Surrey after a three alarm fire tore through a Whalley apartment building early Sunday morning.

Fierce and fast moving, most families escaped with little more than the clothes on their backs, unable to save their beloved pets.

“We have a lot of displaced people at this time,” said Deputy Surrey Fire Chief Karen Fry.

At least 30 people escaped the smoke and heat.

“I just said get dressed and get out. The alarm didn't go off until we left the place,” said resident Kian Kadkhoda who was awoken by the smell.

He spotted flames on a balcony, licking up the four-story, 27 unit building at 2 am.

“In a matter of seconds our place caught fire too,” he said.

Upgraded to a three alarm fire, 30 firefighters battled as the fire tore through the wood attic.

“The code of the day didn't require sprinklers in the roof structure, just in the suites themselves,” said Fire Battalion Chief Ed Wells.

“The investigation is not going to take place for a few days. The area that is thought to be the area of origin is unstable.”

Crews are now searching through the structurally sound areas of the building, looking for valuables. Anything below the 3rd floor may be salvageable. But the fourth floor, where Kadkhoda lived, is likely a total loss.

“I’m grateful we're not hurt, we have to look at the bright side you know. Everybody's in the buildings ok, no one got hurt,” said Kadkhoda.

Some don't have insurance. Emergency social services are doing their best to help these now homeless families.

“Like I should hug and kiss every one of them. They are so nice so kind,” said Kadkhoda.