Resident Hugh Acquarola said he and two flatmates were at home watching television when they smelt a strange burning smell, about 10pm.

They went onto the deck to see a disused Mitsubishi Lancer, that had been parked near the deck, engulfed in flames.

``When it wasn't too big we had the hose on the deck trying to wet everything down,'' Mr Acquarola said.

``But once the deck caught and it was getting to the front of the house we just ran out the back and grabbed the cats and put them in a neighbour's place.

Firefighters were called and arrived in time to stop the fire spreading to the inside of the house.

The deck was destroyed, and a spokesman for Tasmania Fire Service estimated the damage bill was about $12,000.

Mr Acquarola said the heat blew out the windows along the front of the house and caused the doors to the deck to shrivel.

``We can't really close the doors to the deck anymore _ the biggest difference is that it's going to be freezing in here from now on,'' he said.

``It's not the warmest house at the best of times so we will just make do.''

Police are investigating the cause of the fire.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.