MADISON, Wis. -- While floodwaters have devastated many communities, another problem is affecting many homeowners. Basement flooding is both a hidden problem and one that's potentially dangerous.

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Rita Harris, a Madison homeowner, is experiencing flooding in her basement, an all too common problem for area residents.

"A tunnel, combined with a lot of water, got another crack started and after seeing how fast the other one grew, I knew I had to call right away," said Harris.

Dennis Schmitt, of All Enclosures LLC, has fielded many phone calls since the flooding started.

"I've talked to people who've lived in their houses for 25 years who haven't had this problem until this year so it's substantial," said Schmitt.

Water-logged basements, if left untreated, could lead to dangerous mold that can cause respiratory and other health issues. It also presents the homeowners with the expense of having to replace nearly everything that was stored in their basements, WISC-TV reported.

Schmitt said that fixing the small cracks that many people have in their basements is the easy part and can be done with a foam-like compound. He said other measures can help as well.

"You definitely want to get the dehumidifier going immediately, just to get the moisture out of the air," said Harris.

It's recommended that homeowners clear out the water as soon as possible and to use bleach to clean out any mold that may occur. Owners are also urged to keep their eyes open for any other problems, WISC-TV reported.

"I think even if you don't have water in your basement its probably a good idea to go down there, check your walls and see what's up," said Harris.

Schmitt said that homeowners can reduce the risk of basement flooding by having downspouts extend far enough away from the home as well as keeping their gutters clean.

Generally a one-time flood is simple to fix but Schmitt said that if you keep getting water in your basement it might be signs of a bigger problem that could use professional repairs.