The present paper reviews several approaches that can be used in capturing urban features in coarse resolution two-dimensional (2D) models and it demonstrates the effectiveness of a new approach against the straightforward 2D modelling approach on a hypothetical and a real-life case study work. The case study work addresses the use of coarse grid resolutions in 2D non-inertia models. The 2D non-inertia model used solves continuity and momentum equations over the cells of the coarse model while taking the minimum elevation as a surface level. The volume stored in every cell is calculated as a volume-depth relationship. In order to replicate restriction in conveyances in x–y directions of fine resolution models due to building blocks, the friction values of the coarse-resolution model are adjusted to match the results of the high-resolution model. The work presented in this paper shows the possibility of applying a 2D non-inertia model more effectively in urban flood modelling applications whilst still making use of the high resolution of topographic data that can nowadays be easily acquired.