> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guides.gresb.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guides.gresb.com/fundamentals/getting-started/assessment-structure-and-scope.md).
# Assessment Structure & Scope
## About the Assessment
**Fundamentals** is a low-burden, focused approach for real estate managers to validate and communicate the governance and risk practices that underpin credible sustainability performance.
It is designed for clear, shareable outcomes and serves as an on-ramp to the [**GRESB Real Estate Assessment**](https://guides.gresb.com/completingassessments/)—helping organizations build confidence, reduce friction, and establish a baseline for full participation.
It focuses on **17 core management indicators** aligned with the GRESB Real Estate Standard and recognized as good practice across the sector. Together, they establish a practical baseline for sustainability management and disclosure.
>
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Who should participate?
Fundamentals is a good fit for real estate companies and **funds that are preparing for the main Real Estate Assessment** but are:
* **Operating in a mid-intensity disclosure market**, where some data capture exists but systems and processes remain fragmented—and you want more confidence before reporting.
* **Building internal capability** to reduce future risk by strengthening core policies, governance, and management practices early.
* **Working in emerging markets** and looking to demonstrate alignment with widely recognized, global best practices.
* **Without assets under management** but wish to establish and validate foundational sustainability management practices before progressing to participation in the GRESB Real Estate Assessment.
What are the participation requirements?
Fundamentals is only available to **new** Real Estate reporting entities (i.e., funds that have not yet submitted a GRESB Real Estate Assessment).
If the reporting entity submitted a GRESB Real Estate Assessment within the past three years, it is not eligible for Fundamentals.
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