I live in a split level home (tri-level). When we flush the toilet on the top level, raw sewage backs up (belches up) into the shower on the bottom level. No other drains, toilets, etc, are affected. The washing machine, which is within 2 feet of the shower drains properly without any backup into the shower. I just had a Roto Rooter man come and check things out. He tried to snake out the lines but says he hit mud and that means that there is a break in the pipe behind the downstairs shower wall, probably where the copper pipe meets the cast iron pipe. He said that we will need to dig out the main line from the crawl space and replace it. I know nothing about plumbing, but it does not make sense to me that a broken pipe would cause the problems that we are having. Am I totally wrong? Should we get a second opinion? Any help would be GREATLY appreciated! Thanks!

Lizzy, that lower toilet is the lowest drain in your home so when the sewer backs up this shower is the first to get the back pressure. A break would explain it and if he really got mud then a break is what you have, sorry.

Have him to dismount toilet in the basement and snake it through that toilet ring. Also, before you chop up your floors - do video inspection first. Stay next to the serviceman during inspection ! Don't rely on his interpretation. See for yourself. You should be able to recognize break in your line. Request CD of the inspection so you can review it later or submit it to various specialist for analysis and second opinion.

Thanks everyone for all of your help! We do indeed have a break and are in the process of digging up the crawl space! FUN FUN! Thanks again!
Lizzy