An investigation is underway after a body was found following a house fire on the North Coast this morning.

Emergency services were called to Dillon Close, Bellingen, shortly after 5.10am on Tuesday, after a two-level home was seen alight.

A woman was able to escape the house, but a second resident was unaccounted for.

Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters attended and extinguished the blaze about 5.40am.

A body believed to be that of the missing person was found when the building was searched.

Officers attached to Coffs/Clarence Police District have established a crime scene.

Inquiries are now underway to formally identify the body and determine how the fire started.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Coffs Harbour Police or Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000