The problem of exact null-controllability is considered for a wide class of linear neutral-type systems with distributed delay. The main tool of the analysis is the application of the moment problem approach and the theory of the basis property of exponential families. A complete characterization of this problem is given. The minimal time of controllability is specified. The results are based on the analysis of the Riesz basis property of eigenspaces of the neutral-type systems in Hilbert space.