The Saskatoon Fire Department believes a stubborn fire on Tuesday was deliberately set.

Crews got the call just before 3 p.m. CST.

Three fire engines, one rescue unit, one aerial ladder truck, one fire investigation unit and one battalion chief were sent to the scene.

When they arrived, they found a two-storey house with boarded-up windows in flames.

The fire was officially declared out just after 6 p.m.

Fire officials said the house was abandoned and unoccupied.

Investigators say the fire started on the main level and quickly spread to the home's attic.

The building is considered a total loss, with roughly $200,000 in damage.

Police were telling people to avoid the area.