Is it normal for a nikon kit lens (18-55mm) to start breaking down in less than a year?

Rubber grip coming off, focusing problems at 24-35
been using it since january 18 this year with the D5000 it came with
and i've used it for about 20k actuations.
i'm not sure if this random into will help answer the question but, hey, what's to lose?

If it is actually made by Nikon it is not right. If it's an off-brand it could happen.

I wouldn't think this is normal but if you're doing that many shots in that short a time something is going to give and perhaps your lens is that something.

I'd get in touch with Nikon about the problem. Perhaps they'll have some advice or will replace it under warranty.

My 18-55 has lasted over two years now, but I don't think i have nearly as many shots as you, maybe half.

I would get in contact with Nikon and see if you can replace it out of warranty. It may be a faulty lens

This is not normal unless you are rough on your equipment. Call Nikon and see if you can get warranty service on the lens.

20k actuations in nine months are quite some heavy use, but it should withstand that - and you're quite certainly in the warranty time.

I've been using mine since about 2007 and it works like new. It doesn't have that many actuations yet though.