Thanks everyone for your replies. I had them replace the back pads and drums etc as the car is under warranty. They said the front brakes were ok.
When under normal driving conditions there is no riding of the brakes but in Los Angeles (traffic central), I use my brakes as one does not have much choice during the rush hour unless I want to take 3 hours and drive to and from home via the streets
Anyway, I guess I should plan on replacing the brake pads often.