Panasonic TZ20 Camera

[rivel]

I bought his camera on 24/11/11.
It is used almost every day, only by me.It is kept in its case when not in use.
In July a dark spot appeared on the display and showed up on downloaded photos. I had to keep cropping them.
I was told to send it to DK AVS Horley Ltd. for repair.
When it was returned everything seemed to be fine. They attached a note saying that they had removed dust from the lens and that lenses on digital cameras are not airtight. If a camera is used or stored in a dusty environment ( it isn't) dust particles can find their way inside the lens.This is not a fault.We cannot prevent nor guarantee against dust entering the camera.
Now the problem has arisen again only there are about three 'spots' now.
When I contacted them they said that it is not covered by the warranty and it would cost roughly £50 to repair.
It's not a year old yet. I have never had this problem with any other camera.
I asked about it in Jessops today and they seem to think it's up to the seller to get it fixed. The guy did say any repair under £100 is worth getting done in his opinion as the TZ range is very good.
Has anyone got any advice?

[jno]

what does your guarantee say? If it's for a year, why do they say this problem isn't covered by it?

The TZs are good. I have a TZ30 which has a longer zoom. I'd pay to repair it if I had to. But I don't see why in this case you should have to.

[rivel]

Thanks jno. I feel the same but they seem adamant. I'll check out the guarantee.

[bazwillrun]

The action of the zoom lens when closing or reducing the amount of zoom acts like a suction pump and can draw dust in but its not that common.

You do say you use the camera every day so maybe this is whats causing the problem.

[sometimesit]

I would ring trading standards for advice as well so they will know the legal side and also it there are other people with problems with the company.

[rivel]

Thanks everyone.