Regarding receptacle outlets in unfinished portions of a basement, which statement is true?

In unfinished portions of a basement, receptacle outlets must be GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protected. This requirement is in line with the National Electrical Code, which mandates GFCI protection in areas that are potentially damp or wet, such as basements. Even though an unfinished basement may not seem like a typical location where water is present, it can still experience moisture and dampness, creating a risk for electrical shock.

GFCI protection helps safeguard individuals from electric shock by quickly disconnecting power in the event of a ground fault, which could occur due to water exposure. This is especially important in spaces where outlets might be used for various equipment or tools that could be vulnerable to moisture.

The other options do not meet the specific code requirements: receptacles being optional does not align with safety standards, weatherproofing is unnecessary for indoor basements, and while proximity to windows may enhance convenience, it is not a code requirement for receptacle outlet placement in an unfinished basement. Thus, the necessity for GFCI protection stands out as the critical safety measure mandated by the code.