What type of protection is required for receptacles installed in an unfinished residential basement?

In an unfinished residential basement, GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is required for receptacles. This is primarily due to the increased risk of electrical shock in environments where moisture is present, which is common in basements. GFCI devices are designed to monitor the flow of current and can quickly cut off power if they detect an imbalance, preventing electric shock hazards that can occur if someone comes into contact with live electrical parts.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies the requirement for GFCI outlets in areas where the risk of water contact exists, such as basements. The unfinished status of the basement further elevates this risk, making GFCI protection not just a recommendation, but a necessity for ensuring safety.

Standard protection would not be sufficient because it does not address the specific risks associated with damp or wet locations. Surge protection, while useful for protecting against voltage spikes, does not mitigate the risk of electric shock in wet environments. The option indicating "None" would disregard important safety protocols mandated for such areas. Thus, ensuring that receptacles in an unfinished basement have GFCI protection aligns with best practices for electrical safety.