Garage Fire Causes $30K In Damage At Plainfield House: Fire Department

PLAINFIELD, IL — A fire that broke out just after midnight in the garage of a house in Plainfield caused about $30,000 worth of damage, officials said.

The owners of the house in the 11700 block of Millenium Parkway were able to evacuate safely, and the property remains habitable, according to the Plainfield Fire Protection District.

Firefighters were dispatched at 12:14 a.m. to the two-story house where they found flames showing from the roof of the garage. The fire was contained to the solar panels installed atop the garage and did not extend to the house.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Plainfield Building Department responded to assess the structure and ComEd was called to evaluate the residence's electrical components. Officials said the solar panel manufacturer and a board-up company were also called to cover the panels with protective tarps to mitigate any further hazards until replacements are installed.

"The Plainfield Fire Protection District remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents and encourages homeowners with solar panels to conduct regular maintenance and inspections," officials said in a news release.