Curbside painters are back

Every so often some organization goes through the neighborhoods offering to paint house numbers on the curbs.  Thanks to community correspondent Carlos, who tells us that they’re on the prowl in his Altadena neighborhood, and provided the picture of the notice.

First, it’s important to know that such curb painting is not legally required.  There’s nothing wrong with ordering it to be done and paying for it, but if you didn’t request it, you are not liable to pay for it even if it is painted.

Second, even if you want it and are willing to pay for it, there’s a whole other layer of scammers to beware of.  Usually, painting crews will sweep through a neighborhood painting numbers, and then follow up shortly thereafter to collect the money.  One of our correspondents said that, after his curb was painted  last year (and he wanted it painted), somebody came by to collect the money and asked to have the check made out to his organization, which was abbreviated CAS.  Turns out this “collector” had nothing to do with the curb painters, but he was probably scamming THEM by collecting money for their services either in cash or in a check that could be easily altered to say CASH.

Anyway, it’s spring, and they’re out.  Caveat emptor.