Police Scotland are appealing for witnesses after an item, which had been set alight, was put through the door of a flat on High Street, Johnstone.
The incident happened at around 12.20am on Monday.
No one was injured and the item was extinguished before it took hold.
Detective Constable Malcolm Clark, Police Scotland, said: “At this time, although we believe this to be targeted, we don’t yet have a motive. Whatever the reason, to deliberately put a lit object though a door not knowing who could have been in the property is obviously reckless, not to mention very dangerous.
“Officers have been carrying out door-to-door enquires and are checking CCTV but are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area around the time and who may have seen someone acting suspiciously around the flat.
“The suspect is white, around 5ft. 8 inches in height, with a slim build and dark stubble. He was wearing a black waterproof jacket with the hood up.
“Although this happened in the early hours of the morning, I am sure there would be people or motorists about at that time. It would be helpful if, for example, taxis, buses or motorists check their dash-cam footage from the street to see if it maybe captured the incident or someone hanging about the area.
“Anyone with information can contact officers via 101 quoting reference number 0046 of Monday, 20 March, 2023. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”