Careless disposal of a cigarette is getting the blame for a fire in Muskoka Lakes on Friday afternoon.

A neighbour contacted firefighters, at around 12 p.m.  after spotting smoke billowing from the Pearcy Road home.

Investigators have determined the fire started in a chair on the upper floor of the home, before it moved downstairs. The owner was not home at the time.

Muskoka Lakes fire crews say careless disposal of a cigarette is believed to be the cause of the blaze. Damage to the home is estimated at $250,000.

No injuries are reported.